Job Description

Description

Innovation Program Coordinator, New Ventures

Temporary Employment

INNOVATE CALGARY

Calgary, Alberta

About Innovate Calgary

Innovate Calgary is a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of Calgary, supporting the University, its members and partners bridge the gap between discovery and creating economic and societal impact. We provide a unique environment for employees combining a flexible working environment with significant exposure to the breadth of Calgarys and UCalgarys growing innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

About the Role

Innovation Program Coordinator, New Ventures

(Full-Time and Onsite)

This is a

temporary employment

opportunity with a 5-year term, ending on

May 31, 2030

.


Reporting to the Senior Director, New Ventures, the Innovation Program Coordinator (IPC) will be responsible for the day-to-day leadership and delivery of the Lab2Market (L2M) program at the University of Calgary. The IPC plays a pivotal role in advancing Canadas research commercialization agenda through strong program operations, stakeholder engagement, recruitment, and continuous improvement. This role works closely with the pan-Canadian L2M network, including an informal reporting line to the Alberta L2M Program Manager at the University of Alberta, and requires collaborative coordination across a distributed team.


This role sits within a collaborative, values-driven team that supports entrepreneurial researchers and contributes to the broader innovation strategy of Innovate Calgary. Beyond program delivery, the Innovation Program Coordinator is expected to actively participate in shared team activities, contribute to a positive and healthy micro-culture, and engage thoughtfully in discussions that shape our work.


We value integrity, initiative, and sound judgment. This is an ideal role for someone who is energized by meaningful collaboration, contributes constructively to team dynamics, and is ready to take ownership of their lane while remaining attuned to the collective mission. This role is focused on operational program delivery and does not include any direct reports.


About Lab2Market


Lab2Market is a national suite of programs that supports STEM researchersgraduate students, postdocs, and their faculty advisorsin exploring and commercializing their innovations. Spanning four core streamsDiscover, Validate, Launch, and Buildthe program provides structured, progressive support to researchers at every stage of the entrepreneurial journey. Through tailored coaching, facilitated learning, and a connected ecosystem, participants develop entrepreneurial skills and translate their research into market-driven ventures.


The L2M program has secured NSERC funding through 2030, providing a stable runway for long-term impact. Key outcomes include:

Advancing commercialization of breakthrough technologies, products, and services Accelerating the creation and growth of science-based startups and spinouts Strengthening Albertas innovation ecosystem through talent development and venture support Fostering a culture of innovation and impact within the University of Calgary community

Key Responsibilities

Program Operations & Delivery

Develop and maintain comprehensive program plans, budgets, timelines, and outcome tracking Manage application intake, selection, and award processes, in alignment with Mitacs and internal criteria Coordinate course delivery, including oversight of facilitators and guest experts Host and moderate program sessions, webinars, and community events Provide direct support and light coaching to participating teams, identifying and triaging needs Capture data and interactions in Airtable, Salesforce and SharePoint, ensuring high-quality records and reporting Ensure compliance with program standards, funding agreements, and data-sharing protocols Proactively identify and escalate risks related to program delivery, team dynamics, or stakeholder alignment

Stakeholder Engagement

Build and maintain trusted relationships with stakeholders, including University faculties, the TTO, Mitacs, and partner universities Recruit, onboard, and manage external mentors and facilitators; provide context and support Coordinate closely with the Alberta and national L2M teams to ensure program alignment and knowledge sharing Represent L2M Calgary in national and regional working groups as required

Marketing & Recruitment

Co-develop and implement recruitment strategies in partnership with Innovate Calgarys Marketing team Promote the program across campus and to research and innovation communities Ensure consistent messaging and branding across channels in coordination with the national L2M team Build a robust applicant pipeline and nurture prospective teams toward full participation

Reporting & Continuous Improvement

Track and analyze program performance, capturing both quantitative metrics and qualitative feedback Prepare internal and external reports, presentations, and success stories for funders and partners Identify areas for program evolution and improvement based on participant and stakeholder input Contribute to strategic discussions about the long-term development of the L2M program

Qualifications & Experience

At least 5 to 7 years of demonstrated experience in project and client relationship management Ideally, education and/or professional background in STEM fields Exceptional interpersonal communication skillsboth written and verbal Diplomacy and tact in managing competing expectations, feedback, and ambiguity Ability to independently lead projects while coordinating with distributed teams Experience using Salesforce, Airtable, and Microsoft 365 suite Experience and an understanding of the innovation ecosystem is preferred Legally authorized to work in Canada (i.e. Canadian Citizen, Canadian Permanent Resident status, valid open work permit)

What We Offer

We believe in fair and transparent compensation. We provide a well-rounded and meaningful total compensation package designed to support your wellbeing and long-term success:

Salary:

The budgeted salary range for this role is $70,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on our assessment of your experience and qualifications.

Health & Wellness:

Comprehensive, employer-paid benefits including extended health, dental, disability, life insurance, a health spending account, and an employee and family assistance program.

Retirement Savings:

A competitive Group RRSP program with employer matching contributions of up to 5% in your first year, increasing to 8% after your first year.

Paid Time Off:

Generous paid time off including vacation, sick days, volunteering time, 12 recognized statutory holidays, plus our office closes annually from December 25 to January 1, providing additional paid time off without reducing your vacation balance.

Mission-Driven Work:

Join a highly engaged and purpose-driven team. Youll work alongside people who are passionate about supporting research, innovation, and entrepreneurs tackling some of the worlds most pressing challenges.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are asked to email their resume and cover letter to hr@innovatecalgary.com with

Innovation Program Coordinator, New Ventures

as the subject line.


We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Application Closing Date: October 1, 2025

Innovate Calgary is an equal opportunity organization committed to building and fostering a fair and inclusive community that values diversity and encourages respect for all. We welcome applicants across any race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, Indigenous status, or any other legally protected factors. We recognize the value of identifying and removing barriers for any applicants interested in participating in our programs.