Graduate Role - 2025

Position: Graduate Business & Grant Fund Officer

Location: Belfast, Cathedral Quarter

Salary: £28k per annum

Contract: Full time

Working Hours: 9am–5.30pm (37.5hr week). Some flexibility will be required when attending events/conferences.

Responsible to: Head of Grant Fund.

About Techstart Ventures LLP ('Techstart Ventures')

At Techstart Ventures, we support ambitious entrepreneurs and drive innovation across Northern Ireland and Scotland. As one of the most active venture capital firms in the UK and Ireland, we manage over £200 million in early-stage investment funds, investing in early-stage technology businesses with high growth potential. From our offices in Belfast and Edinburgh, we provide seed capital to help startups scale and succeed.

In Northern Ireland, Techstart also manages a Proof of Concept (PoC) Grant Fund to help entrepreneurs with innovative ideas to explore the viability and commercial potential of their concepts.

To learn more, visit: www.techstart.vc and www.techstartgrants.com

Role Overview

We are looking for an enthusiastic and organised graduate to join our Belfast team. This is an entry level role, ideal for a recent graduate with an interest in business and entrepreneurship, who can bring a positive attitude, strong attention to detail, and a willingness to learn and actively contribute across a wide range of responsibilities.

You will play an active role in delivering the Proof of Concept Grant Fund, supporting the full delivery cycle - from applicant engagement to operational execution - while building direct relationships with early-stage founders and taking responsibility for key aspects of grant operations. You will also be responsible for supporting and coordinating the daily operations of the office, helping maintain high standards across all activities.

This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop an understanding of both a grant fund for entrepreneurs and a venture capital firm, with meaningful involvement across all areas of the business.

Key Responsibilities

As part of the team, you will:

• Provide operational support across various business functions
• Assist in managing the operations of the PoC Grant Fund:
  • Deal with enquiries and liaise with entrepreneurs
  • Help promote the Fund via social media, email, etc.
  • Support application review and document preparation
  • Assist with organising and running pitch sessions
  • Issue Grant Offers and monitor funded projects
  • Vouch and approve grant claims
  • Fund analysis
• Assist in company marketing activities
• Help coordinate attendance at events
• Build relationships with stakeholders
• Represent Techstart Ventures at industry events

What We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from graduates who are:

• Organised and detail-oriented
• Strong communicator (written and verbal)
• Curious, proactive, and eager to learn
• Team player

Essential Criteria

• A Degree in any subject (relevant disciplines a plus)
• Graduation Year 2024 or 2025
• Previous experience in an office environment
• Proficient in all MS Office packages
• Ability to multitask and prioritise
• An interest in start-ups, innovation, or business support

Desirable Criteria (but not required)

• Awareness of the local start-up scene
• Familiarity with tools like Canva, LinkedIn, Mailchimp, CMS

What We Offer

• Supportive working environment
• Competitive Salary of £28k per annum
• 25 Days Annual Leave plus 11 Public Holidays
• Company Pension Scheme
• Life Assurance

How to Apply

• Email your Cover Letter and CV to kathleen@techstart.vc
• Include “Graduate Business & Grant Fund Officer” in the subject line
• Closing date: Monday 30th June, 3pm
• First-stage interviews: Monday 7th July, Belfast office
• Second-stage interviews: Tuesday 8th July, Belfast office