Business Start-Up Lead (Contract), Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth, South Africa | Posted on 02/27/2026

Our client is seeking an Industrial Start-Up Lead to join the Port Elizabeth team on a contract basis,

Develop and execute structured incubation and acceleration programs focused on industrial sectors (e.g., manufacturing, green tech, energy systems).

Support product development, prototyping, pilot projects, and technology readiness.

Customize incubation pathways based on venture maturity and sector requirements.

Work closely with entrepreneurs to refine business models, build proof-of-concept solutions, and prepare for commercialization.

Facilitate mentorship, technical assistance, and access to production and testing facilities.

Provide business development coaching and link ventures with supply chain and market access opportunities.

Build and maintain strong relationships with manufacturers, industry bodies, technology suppliers, and research institutions.

Promote localization and industrial innovation through collaborative initiatives.

Engage in regional and national forums to keep us aligned with emerging industry trends.

Track performance of incubated ventures using measurable KPIs.

Prepare project and monitoring&evaluation (M&E) reports to document impact and inform continuous improvement.

Maintain accurate records of venture progress, milestones, and interventions.

Contribute to writing project proposals and managing donor-funded or revenue-generating programs.

Assist in budgeting, project planning, and coordination of technical support teams.

Ensure all program documentation is current, accessible, and audit ready.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Industrial Technology, or a related field.

Minimum 5 years’ experience working in business incubation, product development, or industrial innovation.

Demonstrated experience supporting startups or SMEs in manufacturing, engineering, or sustainability-focused sectors.

Deep understanding of industrial processes, product commercialization, and the innovation lifecycle.

Familiarity with prototyping, fabrication, pilot production, and industrial quality systems.

Strong business acumen and ability to coach entrepreneurs on market entry and growth strategies.

Effective relationship builder with experience engaging industry, academia, and government.

Strong project management, facilitation, and communication skills.

Experience in grant writing and donor relationship management preferred

Exposure to ESG principles and sustainable industrial development practices preferred

Knowledge of local content and localization policies in South Africa preferred

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