Executive Director

About the Boyd Innovation Center and Growco:

The Boyd Innovation Center (BIC), powered by GrowCo, is the central hub for high-growth high-tech (HGHT) startup activities in the Greater Columbia area. The BIC provides an environment focused on entrepreneurship and collaboration, while GrowCo is a nonprofit organization whose sole focus is helping Columbia develop tech founders by providing mentorship, guidance, educational programming, and startup-focused social functions.

Position Overview:

The Executive Director of The Boyd Innovation Center (BIC), powered by Growco, will provide visionary leadership and strategic oversight to foster a dynamic founder-first entrepreneurial ecosystem. This role will drive the BIC’s mission to support the growth of innovative startups, entrepreneurial ventures, and community collaborations. The Executive Director will lead all aspects of the BIC’s operations, including program development, partnerships, fundraising, community outreach, and financial management.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with a strong entrepreneurial background, proven experience in business development, and a passion for fostering innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership and Vision:

Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for the BIC that aligns with its mission and long-term goals set by the Board.

Lead the development of innovative programs that provide mentorship, resources, and support services for startups and entrepreneurs.

Foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that puts founders first.

Collaborate with the Board of Directors to establish, refine, and report on organizational performance metrics that align with strategic goals, program impact, revenue generation, and community engagement.

Partnerships and Ecosystem Building:

Build and maintain strategic relationships with industry partners, venture capitalists, angel investors, government agencies, community members, and economic development organizations to provide resources, funding, and opportunities for the BIC and its members.

Lead outreach efforts to engage the broader community and to grow and expand the “founder pipeline”, including local businesses, civic organizations, and community leaders, to promote the BIC and recruit members, mentors, and partners.

Serve as the primary liaison between the BIC and external stakeholders, advocating for the BIC and Growco’s role in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the Greater Columbia area.

Fundraising and Financial Management:

Secure funding for BIC operations through partnerships, grants, sponsorships, private sector relationships, and philanthropic efforts.

Develop and manage the BIC’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability and efficient resource allocation to support its programs and clients.

Mentorship and Startup Support:

Create and oversee a structured mentorship program, providing guidance and support to entrepreneurs and startups.

Maintain and expand the ColaStarts accelerator program.

Support clients in business development, strategic planning, marketing, securing funding, monitoring their progress, and helping them achieve their business goals by directing them to appropriate mentors in the community

Collaborate with other in-state resources to leverage technical assistance and prototyping support for startups.

Operations and Facility Management:

Provide executive leadership over the day-to-day operations of the BIC, including space management, staffing, and administrative processes.

Maintain and expand tracking mechanisms to follow the entire founder life cycle from initial contact to the inception of an idea to its realization so that the organization can maximize its outreach efforts and streamline operations.

Oversee lease agreements, facility contracts, and vendor relationships to ensure effective operations.

Ensure the BIC adheres to best practices in business incubation, promoting the successful graduation of clients and contributing to a sustainable regional entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Report to the Board of Directors on a monthly basis (or more often, depending on circumstances) and relay standardized metrics relating to the success and health of the organization.

Community Engagement and Advocacy:

Represent the BIC at local and regional events, conferences, and workshops, advocating for the BIC’s role in entrepreneurship.

Organize events, workshops, and conferences to promote the BIC’s mission, recruit clients, and engage with the broader community.

Develop marketing and communication strategies to raise awareness of the BIC’s programs and successes.

Serve as an evangelist, when appropriate, for the entrepreneurial community in Columbia.

Skills and Abilities:

Leadership and Vision: Ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams, drive innovation, and communicate a long-term vision for the BIC.

Entrepreneurial Experience: Deep understanding of startup ecosystems, venture creation, and business growth strategies.

Partnership Building: Strong networking and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage with investors, partners, and community leaders.

Financial Acumen: Experience in fundraising, budget management, and creating sustainable financial models for startup programs.

Mentorship and Development: Strong coaching and advisory skills to support entrepreneurs and startups.

Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to represent the BIC in public forums and engage with diverse stakeholders.

Strong Candidates Should Possess:

A proven track record with leading a non-profit, especially an Entrepreneur Support Organization, or leadership experience in startups/tech, venture capital, or entrepreneurship.

Strong understanding of technology trends and innovation ecosystems, including knowledge of SaaS, AI, cloud platforms, and other emerging technologies.

Knowledge of best practices in business incubation, including client graduation, industry benchmarks, and entrepreneurial support programs.

Willingness to relocate to the Columbia, SC area (if applicable).

Compensation

A six-figure-plus salary that reflects the duties required and is based on relevant experience

Relocation bonus (if applicable)

Three weeks of paid leave

Health Insurance + Retirement Contribution