Program SpecialistCommunitech helps tech companies start, grow, and succeed in Waterloo Region.We’re building a tech ecosystem that’s proudly local, globally ambitious and powered by community.Since 1997, Communitech has brought community and tech together to build Canada’s most vibrant innovation ecosystem. We connect local startups and scale-ups to the support they need to grow, compete and lead.Today, that means helping trusted AI solutions reach the market, turning bold ideas into valuable IP, expanding peer and advisory networks for founders, and uniting voices through the Waterloo Tech Coalition to take on the issues that matter most.Our goal is to keep Waterloo Region the most connected, cooperative, and resilient tech hub in the country.We’re looking to grow our team with passionate people – people who believe in our mission and who are willing to do what it takes to help our founders succeed. If you like to work collaboratively, get s#!t done and be a champion for Canadian tech, we want to hear from you. Wonder what it’s like to work at Communitech? Learn more at.Communitech is based in downtown Kitchener, Ontario. We work in-office five days a week because great things happen when we're together — creating space for deeper collaboration and stronger relationships with each other and the ecosystem we support.The RoleReporting to the VP, Programs & Services, the Program Specialist will oversee the successful development, implementation and execution of products and services related to the Elevate IP Program, a federally funded initiative to ensure more equitable access to:IP protection awareness, promotion and informationIP strategy mentorship and coachingFunding the development and implementation of IP strategiesThe Program Specialist will support the development and delivery of information sessions and materials to help build awareness of the program among startups. Education and training may be delivered in person, remotely, or hybrid,



and comes in a variety of formats such as videos, courses, workshops, self‑assessment tools, and other materials.ResponsibilitiesSource and maintain a suite of materials, best practices, and/or training modules to support and train innovators on critical issues in delivering IP services to startupsCompile and provide basic information about intellectual property (IP), why it’s important for startups, and what program elements are available to ensure startups can make informed education and program choicesOutline local and regional support available to assist startups and how to access them (e.G. licensed service providers, self‑assessment tools, and IP strategy resources)Provide overviews on resources, expertise, and national initiatives available through the ElevateIP program and how to access themSupport the delivery of educational workshops, roundtables, events, and information sessionsBuild relationships and work cross‑functionally with multiple teams throughout the organization to help the success of our programs, marketing, and communicationsCollaborate with team members on marketing and outreach activities to increase ElevateIP program awareness and uptake (e.G. promoting program events and resources on social media, hosting program information session, etc.)Develop and recommend processes and documentation to enable startups to find or access specialized training and supportWorking with the Senior Program Manager, coordinate and track contracts, partnership agreements and invoices, and events scheduleHelp recruit startups, innovators,



and collaborators into the programEngage external vendors and partners to develop and provide advanced IP education/training for underrepresented groups, verticals, or sectors based on startup needs and gaps, in particular to meet the needs of:Underrepresented groups (including, but not limited to, women, Indigenous people, racialized groups, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ2S+ individuals)Specific sectors, technologies, and focus areasSpecial topics related to IP strategy and implementationOther duties as assigned. All duties subject to change.Qualifications1–3 years of relevant professional experienceExperience with a learning management system is considered a strong asset; please indicate the platform you are familiar with in your applicationPrevious experience working with enabling or growth organizations, or supporting business‑to‑business sales, is an assetInterest in cutting‑edge technology and its practical application(s) for our foundersStrong organizational skills with great attention to detailsStrong written and verbal communication skillsProven ability to effectively manage multiple concurrent requests and prioritize them based on impact and urgencyPassion for building relationships, providing outstanding customer serviceAbility to handle and maintain confidential information with discretion and professionalismStrong Google suite skills and collaborative tech usageAbility to responsibly and ethically use generative AI tools to streamline workflows and increase efficiency in a professional settingExperience using Salesforce or a similar CRM is an assetWillingness to represent Communitech at events outside of normal working hours on occasionCompensationThe annual base salary range for this role is $55,000-$58,000. This is a contract, full‑time position from June 1, 2026 (or hire date) to March 31, 2027.#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Program Specialist - C$55,000 - C$58,000 A Year (Winnipeg)
🏢 Communitech
📍 Winnipeg