PARO LaunchPad Coordinator
Location: Thunder Bay, Ontario
Contract Type: Full-Time, Independent Contractor Position
Reporting to: Founder & CEO
Contract Fee: $70,000/year
About PARO: Founded in 1995, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise (PARO) is a not-for-profit, charitable organization and Ontario’s largest Women’s Enterprise Centre. For over 30 years, PARO has been a recognized leader in advancing women’s economic empowerment. We are committed to increasing the economic independence and self-sufficiency of women and their families. Through award-winning, cutting-edge programs, access to capital, mentorship, and collaborative networks, PARO supports women entrepreneurs to start, grow, and scale sustainable businesses.
Project Overview: The PARO LaunchPad is PARO’s next-generation flagship initiative designed to empower women-owned Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)—especially those from equity-denied groups—to scale, adopt technology (including AI), access capital, and expand into new markets. This project is structured around three core pillars: ElevateHER (Market Expansion), InnovateHER (Technology & AI Adoption), and FinanceHER (Investment Readiness & Capital Access).
Scope of Work / Contractor Responsibilities: The PARO LaunchPad Coordinator, as an independent contractor, will be responsible for leading the implementation and day-to-day operational execution of the PARO LaunchPad. This role requires the coordination and integration of all activities across the project's three core pillars:
- Oversee and drive the implementation of all PARO LaunchPad project streams, ensuring seamless integration across pillars and adherence to project timelines.
- Coordinate comprehensive onboarding assessments for market, digital, and investment readiness to tailor support for project participants.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for all LaunchPad project participants, providing guidance and support throughout their engagement.
- Actively strengthen and expand ecosystem to enhance project reach.
- Track project metrics, and prepare detailed reports.
Qualifications
- Post-secondary education in Business, Economic Development, Technology, Entrepreneurship, or a related field.
- Minimum 3–5 years of demonstrated experience in program coordination, economic development, or entrepreneurship support, specifically within an SME context.
- Strong understanding of SME growth, scaling, and strategies for capital access.
- Strong knowledge of AI, digital transformation, or technology adoption supports.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills.
- Experience with grant reporting and performance measurement frameworks.
Core Competencies
- Strategic thinking
- Operational execution
- Cultural competency & inclusion
- Project management
- High-level communication
Opportunity: This contract offers a unique opportunity to lead a flagship regional initiative –PARO LaunchPad – directly contributing to shaping women-led innovation and fostering a more inclusive business ecosystem. The successful contractor will leverage their expertise to drive regional economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable growth.
Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.
Application requirements: Resumes including cover letter, 3 references and authorization to contact to "HR Manager" at [email protected]. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Job Types: Full-time, Freelance
Pay: $70,000.00 per year
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (required)
Location:
- Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4L3 (required)
Work Location: In person
