Startup and Capital Readiness Consultant

Closing Date:

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a metropolitan research university that provides an accessible, quality education through flexible learning and unparalleled internship opportunities. At UA Little Rock, we prepare our more than 8,900 students to be innovators and responsible leaders in their fields. Committed to its metropolitan research university mission, UA Little Rock is a driving force in Little Rock's thriving cultural community and a major component of the city and state's growing profile as a regional leader in research, technology transfer, economic development, and job creation.

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. To apply for the position, please click the Apply link/button.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 501-916-3180.

For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at 501-916-3180.

Required Education and/or Experience:

• A Bachelor's degree

Preferred Education and/or Experience:

• Degree in business or significant coursework in business;
• Small business ownership experience;
• Experience with startup businesses;
• Experience with business planning, budgeting, or financial management;
• Experience working with entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Job Duties

• Assist entrepreneurs and small business owners in understanding the steps involved in starting and operating a business;
• Assess client needs and provide appropriate tools, resources, and guidance to help clients achieve business goals;
• Assist clients with developing startup budgets, project cost estimates, basic financial projections, and business plans;
• Help entrepreneurs evaluate business concepts and identify next steps toward implementation;
• Prepare entrepreneurs for the process of seeking appropriate sources of capital, including microloans and other small business financing programs;
• Assist clients with capital readiness, lender preparedness, and capital application processes;
• Conduct consultations focused on helping entrepreneurs move projects forward efficiently and effectively;
• Coordinate with consulting staff possessing specialized expertise when projects require advanced financial analysis, industry-specific knowledge, strategic growth planning, or complex capital transactions.

Client Management

• Maintain a high-volume portfolio of entrepreneurs and small business owners;
• Conduct initial and follow-up consultations with clients seeking assistance with startup, capital access, and business planning;
• Maintain a schedule of availability to assist prospective and existing clients;
• Document client activity and outcomes in accordance with ASBTDC policies and program requirements;
• Track and contribute to performance measures, including business starts, capital applications, capital accessed, and clients served;
• Maintain accurate records in the ASBTDC MIS.

Training and Outreach

• Refer clients to ASBTDC training programs, tools, and resources based on business needs and readiness;
• Conduct workshops and training sessions on startup, capital readiness, and small business topics;
• Assist in the implementation of the ASBTDC marketing plan;
• Conduct outreach activities to promote ASBTDC services and develop relationships with community partners and resource providers;
• May assist with special projects related to grant-funded initiatives.

Other

• Account for daily use of time in ASBTDC MIS in accordance with organizational guidance;
• Maintain an up-to-date work calendar in accordance with organizational guidance;
• May provide support for special projects and organizational initiatives, including market research, resource development, and other activities that advance the mission of the ASBTDC;
• Earn 32 hours of professional development annually according to organizational policy;
• Perform other duties as assigned to accomplish the goals and mission of the organization;
• Must maintain a valid driver's license and meet state requirements for operating vehicles on state business;
• Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including occasional nights and weekends;
• Must be available for in-state and out-of-state travel, including overnight stays;
• Must successfully pass required background checks;
• Must adhere to University System and ASBTDC Conflict of Interest standards.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of small business startup and operations;
• Ability to assist entrepreneurs with startup planning, business concepts, and business sustainability;
• Ability to develop basic financial projections and startup budgets;
• Ability to communicate financial and business concepts to individuals without a business background;
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Strong organizational and time management skills;
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload efficiently;
• Ability to assess client needs and determine appropriate next steps and resources;
• Ability to work independently and complete assignments in a timely manner;
• Ability to conduct outreach and develop relationships with community partners;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to the University System and ASBTDC Conflict of Interest standards.

Additional Information:

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Sitehttps://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is committed to providing a safe campus community. We conduct background checks for applicants being considered for employment. Background checks include a criminal background check and a sex offender registry check. For certain positions, there may also be a financial (credit) background check, a Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) check, and/or drug screening. Required checks are identified in the position listing. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication or adverse financial history information alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background check information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.