Venture Capital & Investment Partnerships Manager
RI Commerce is seeking a Manager of Venture Capital & Investment Partnerships to strengthen the state’s capital ecosystem and expand access to funding for Rhode Island businesses. This role is responsible for connecting startups, growth-stage companies, and established businesses with investors, venture capital firms, financial institutions, and high-net-worth individuals.
The ideal candidate is a proactive relationship builder who understands both business development and investment dynamics. This position provides an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to work directly with Rhode Island’s cities and towns to facilitate, support, and track economic development projects across the state.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement strategies to expand private and institutional investment in Rhode Island-based companies.
- Build and manage a network of investors, including venture capital firms, private equity groups, angel investors, and family offices.
- Serve as a connector between entrepreneurs and investors to identify funding opportunities and facilitate introductions.
- Partner with accelerators, incubators, universities, and innovation hubs to identify and support high-potential startups.
- Assist businesses with capital readiness, including investor outreach, pitch development, and funding strategy preparation.
- Represent Rhode Island Commerce at investment events, forums, and conferences, promoting the state as a strong destination for venture investment.
- Track and maintain data on investment pipeline activities, funding outcomes, and investor engagement.
- Research venture market trends and emerging funding models to inform Commerce’s economic development strategy.
- Support or lead special projects such as investor roundtables, startup showcases, and venture summits.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Key Competencies
- Financial Acumen: Working knowledge of venture capital, private equity, and startup finance.
- Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills to develop and sustain partnerships across diverse stakeholder groups.
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to identify opportunities for collaboration and growth within the state’s business ecosystem.
- Communication Skills: Clear, persuasive communicator able to engage with both entrepreneurs and investors.
- Initiative: Self-starter who takes ownership and drives projects forward with limited supervision.
- Results Orientation: Focused on measurable impact through increased investment, partnerships, and business growth.
Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or economics.
- 3–7 years of experience in venture capital, private equity, investment banking, business development, or economic development roles.
- Demonstrated experience in building partnerships or connecting businesses with funding opportunities.
- Familiarity with startup ecosystems, innovation programs, and early-stage financing.
- Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail.
- Experience with CRM or investor management tools (e.g., Salesforce) is a plus.
Classification
Regular – Full Time
Reports to:
President & CEO
The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation (the “Corporation”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Corporation does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by applicable law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need. The Corporation will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.