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Program Manager at CredPal, Lagos

We are hiring a highly organized and execution-focused Program Manager to lead and manage our participation in global accelerators, incubators, venture studios, and non-dilutive funding programs. This role owns the end-to-end application pipeline from identifying the right programs to preparing submissions, coordinating materials, and ensuring we consistently secure placements in high-value startup programs worldwide.

You will work closely with founders and leadership to position the company for acceptance into top-tier programs and maximize strategic opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

Program & Accelerator Pipeline Management

Research and maintain a database of relevant:

• Accelerators
• Incubators
• Venture studios
• Government innovation programs
• Grants and competitions
• Track deadlines, requirements, and eligibility
• Prioritize programs based on strategic fit
• Maintain a rolling 3–6 month application calendar

Deliverable: Clear, organized pipeline of all upcoming opportunities.

Application Preparation & Submission

• Lead preparation of all application materials, including:
• Written responses and essays
• Pitch deck customization
• Founder bios
• Product descriptions
• Metrics and traction summaries
• Financial data
• Demo materials

Ensure:

• High-quality submissions
• Consistent storytelling
• Zero missed deadlines

Deliverable: On-time, polished applications across all target programs.

Founder & Leadership Coordination

• Gather required information from founders and teams
• Translate internal information into strong application narratives
• Prepare briefing documents for leadership
• Ensure alignment across materials

Deliverable: Well-prepared founders and consistent messaging.

Interview & Selection Support

• Prepare founders for accelerator interviews
• Build Q&A prep documents
• Run mock sessions
• Manage follow-ups with program teams

Deliverable: Interview-ready teams and timely follow-up.

Strategic Program Tracking

• Track acceptance rates and outcomes
• Recommend which programs to prioritize
• Monitor ecosystem opportunities globally
• Suggest timing for applications

Deliverable: Quarterly program strategy updates.

Grant & Non-Dilutive Funding Applications

• Identify relevant grants and competitions
• Coordinate application materials
• Manage submission timelines
• Track outcomes

Deliverable: Ongoing pipeline of grant opportunities.

KPIs / Success Metrics

• Number of high-quality applications submitted per quarter
• Acceptance/interview rate
• Total programs secured
• Non-dilutive funding secured
• Timeliness of submissions
• Strength of application pipeline
• Quality of documentation and tracking

Requirements

• Minimum 3 – 6 years experience in Startup operations, Program management, Venture capital support roles, Founder associate roles, Accelerator or incubator environments
• Strong writing and editing skills
• Exceptional organizational ability
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Strong research skills
• Comfortable working directly with founders

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience applying to or working with: YC, Techstars, Antler, Global accelerators
• Grant writing experience
• Startup ecosystem knowledge
• Deck editing experience
• Familiarity with Notion, Airtable, or similar tools

Key Traits

• Highly proactive
• Detail-oriented
• Structured thinker
• Fast executor
• Strong communicator
• Comfortable in fast-moving startup environments
• Tools & Systems; Notion / Airtable, Google Workspace
• Pitch decks
• Data rooms
• CRM tools
• Application portals

Benefits

• Professional development opportunities.
• A collaborative and inclusive work culture that fosters growth and innovation.
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge products and technologies.
• Supportive and approachable management team dedicated to your success.
• Competitive salary package with performance-based bonuses tied to acceptances
• Equity (optional depending on seniority)