Startup Ecosystem Researcher (Accelerators / Innovation Ecosystems)

Curiosity Lab is a living laboratory for real-world technology deployment located just outside Atlanta, Georgia. We work with startups, corporate innovation teams, universities, and global partners to test, validate, and scale emerging technologies in an active city environment. We are looking for a highly capable contractor to help us identify 100 accelerators, incubators, university programs, innovation agencies, venture capital firms, and other entrepreneurial support organizations that work closely with early- and growth-stage technology companies. The goal is to identify organizations that could become strong referral partners and help us build a pipeline of companies interested in deploying, testing, and scaling emerging technologies in a real-world environment. This is not a sales role and it is not traditional lead generation. We are looking for someone who can thoughtfully identify organizations that are strategically aligned with our focus areas, determine the right person within those organizations to engage, and help us initiate meaningful conversations. Your responsibilities will include: --Researching and prioritizing startup support/ecosystem organizations that align with Curiosity Lab's mission --Identifying the appropriate decision-makers within those organizations (program directors, partnership leads, accelerator managers, innovation leaders, etc.) --Researching and verifying contact information --Drafting personalized outreach for Curiosity Lab leadership to send --Preparing meeting briefings and background research --Tracking outreach efforts, conversations, and next steps --Identifying patterns and recommendations that improve our long-term deal flow strategy We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in startups, venture capital, accelerators, innovation ecosystems, university commercialization programs, entrepreneurship support organizations, economic development, or business development. The ideal candidate is an excellent researcher, highly organized, comfortable working independently, and able to distinguish between organizations that are likely to generate high-quality referrals and those that are not. **Please review the attached job description before applying** To Apply Please submit: --A short note describing why this project interests you --A resume or LinkedIn profile --A brief description of any experience working with startups, accelerators, venture capital firms, innovation ecosystems, or entrepreneurial support organizations --One example of a research, outreach, or relationship-building project you are particularly proud of