Small Business & Entrepreneurship Program and Events Manager

The Urban League of Greater Madison is a respected nonprofit organization committed to advancing economic opportunity, community development, and civil rights in the Madison area. With a rich history both locally and nationally, the organization focuses on empowering underserved communities through impactful programs and initiatives. The Urban League serves as a catalyst for change by promoting racial equity and providing resources that support economic development and sustainability for individuals and businesses. The organization's mission emphasizes inclusiveness and upward mobility, working diligently to create prosperous communities where all residents can thrive.

Within this framework, the Urban League of Greater Madison operates the Black Business Hub Accelerator Program, an initiative designed to support small business owners and entrepreneurs, particularly those from underserved communities. The Small Business & Entrepreneurship Program and Events Manager will play a pivotal role within this program by providing hands-on coaching, facilitating educational workshops, and organizing professional events aimed at strengthening the area's entrepreneurial ecosystem. This position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to economic advancement and community development while helping entrepreneurs achieve operational success and financial sustainability.

The role of Small Business & Entrepreneurship Program and Events Manager involves comprehensive responsibilities ranging from business coaching to event coordination. The successful candidate will work directly with a diverse group of entrepreneurs, including microbusiness owners, Main Street food and retail operators, and growth-oriented tech ventures. Through personalized coaching sessions, the manager will assist business owners in improving financial management, operational decision-making, marketing, legal compliance, and overall business strategy. This role requires an individual who is adept at translating complex business concepts into practical advice that entrepreneurs can apply to sustain and grow their ventures.

Beyond one-on-one coaching, the manager is responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing business development programs such as cohort-based training sessions and specialized workshops. Access to capital is another key focus area, with the manager identifying and facilitating opportunities for entrepreneurs to secure funding from various sources, including banks, credit unions, community development financial institutions (CDFIs), nonprofits, and grant programs. Collaborating with an extensive network of external partners and internal staff is essential to enhance program offerings and expand the reach of the Black Business Hub.

Event management is a significant aspect of the position, where the manager will plan and execute events such as pitch competitions, networking mixers, and summits that foster community building and peer support among entrepreneurs. The manager will ensure all events provide a premium experience by overseeing operations, vendor management, and quality control. Additionally, the role includes monitoring impact metrics and reporting participant outcomes to leadership and funding partners, as well as leading strategic initiatives and community engagement activities.

This full-time, exempt position is based in Madison, Wisconsin, requiring a flexible schedule with frequent evening and weekend hours to accommodate events and programming. The Urban League offers an excellent benefits package, including generous paid time off, comprehensive family health insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, life and disability insurance, and optional dental and vision benefits. This position is ideal for a mission-driven professional with strong business acumen, exceptional organizational skills, and a passion for supporting entrepreneurial success within marginalized communities.