Startup Catalyst - Happy Valley LaunchBox

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time, remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Jun 03, 2025
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. POSITION SPECIFICS At the heart of State College, PA, Happy Valley LaunchBox powered by PNC Bank stands as a home to entrepreneurial spirit housed in the Eric J. Barron Innovation Hub. The Startup Catalyst role represents a unique intersection of academics, innovation, and public service, where the community, students, and thought leaders converge to ignite economic and entrepreneurial growth at Penn State University Park Campus and beyond. With our roots in the Commonwealth's land-grant institution, we are committed to extending our legacy of societal impact through contemporary avenues of entrepreneurship and outreach. Launched in 2015, Invent Penn State focuses on entrepreneurship and innovation programs, tools, and resources that accelerate the movement of great ideas to the marketplace and make a substantial economic development impact across Pennsylvania and the nation. Overseen by the Office of Entrepreneurship and Commercialization, the effort spans the University's twenty-four campuses, all academic colleges, institutes, and centers. It has quickly become a burgeoning entrepreneurial ecosystem supporting Penn State faculty, staff, students, and community innovators. About the Role: Joining the team of entrepreneurial builders at Happy Valley LaunchBox will allow you to play an important role in fostering the next generation of startups. As the startup catalyst, you will assist in delivering a variety of entrepreneurship programs, provide startup mentorship, and actively engage in educational and community-building activities that promote startup success across the University Park campus and Happy Valley. Your energy and efforts will be crucial in accelerating the startup landscape at Happy Valley LaunchBox. Core Responsibilities: Entrepreneurial Coaching: As a mentor, your role is to guide new startups through the various phases of testing, building, and launching their ideas into scalable businesses. Your coaching should go beyond simply providing resources and knowledge. It should be a combination of coaching and mentoring, wherein you provide entrepreneurs with the necessary guidance and tools to navigate the complex world of starting a business. Program Execution: Assist in developing and executing a robust lineup of programs designed to support startups in various stages of their journey. You'll manage these programs from the initial spark of an idea to the full blaze of a business launch, ensuring each cohort receives comprehensive and sustained support. Culture Shaping: This position plays a crucial role in establishing an active startup culture within Happy Valley, and as the catalyst, your participation is essential. You will be responsible for connecting with entrepreneurs and amplifying the startup spirit both on campus and within the community through proactive university and community engagement. Academic Partnerships and Student Engagement: Partner with academic departments and student organizations across Penn State to deliver workshops, events, and hands-on learning that inspire innovation among students and faculty. LaunchBox collaborates with the ENTI minor, SEDTAPP, CIENT, and Invent Penn State, while engaging student clubs such as NES, CIES, HVVC, Happy Valley Comm, and many more. These partnerships help spark entrepreneurial thinking and connect students with the tools, mentors, and networks needed to launch ideas. Strategic Development: Our energetic team is dedicated to expanding entrepreneurship in Happy Valley, and plays an integral role in driving strategic initiatives that nurture the community's entrepreneurial ecosystem with a fun, startup-centric culture. Skills and Experience: Experience within startup ecosystems, emphasizing mentorship and strategic program implementation. An advocate for entrepreneurial practices, eager to immerse in and apply innovative thinking. Technologically adept, and comfortable with a variety of digital tools. Exceptional relational abilities, fostering strong, cooperative partnerships. Working Environment: This full-time in-person position requires a dynamic, adaptable schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends, to match the vibrant pulse of the startup scene. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $56,200.00 - $81,500.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines