Business Development Analyst, TRI Propel

At Toyota Research Institute (TRI), we're on a mission to improve the quality of human life. We're developing new tools and capabilities to amplify the human experience via high-risk, high-reward, use-inspired research. To lead a transformative shift in mobility for Toyota, we've built a world-class team in human-centered AI, human interactive driving, energy and materials, machine learning, and robotics.
We are seeking a highly motivated and versatile individual to join our team as the Business Development Analyst of TRI’s new Propel Incubator. The mission of TRI Propel is to be a startup incubator within TRI for the purpose of launching new companies together with TRI employees, creating new business value for Toyota in adjacent markets where Toyota does not have a presence today, and transferring TRI research out to society. TRI Propel provides funding, support, training, and mentoring for TRI founders. 
The Business Development Analyst will play a key role in building a strong community, managing it effectively, and helping portfolio companies leverage internal and external resources to address their challenges.
This is a great opportunity to be part of a new corporate incubator! The team works closely with the Opportunity Discovery and Technology Adoption team, research teams within TRI, as well as innovation teams across the Toyota family of companies. You will network with entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors. You will be part of the team that helps build the next amazing startup, as it grows from idea to venture-backed company.

Responsibilites

• Generate insights and reports that are the basis for investment decisions of TRI’s incubator portfolio, including market maps, competitive analysis, customer value propositions, determining potential business impact, market size analysis, and more
• Build and manage a vibrant community, driving engagement, and providing valuable resources to our incubating companies. 
• Curate content, source speakers, and organize regular portfolio meetings, creative and educational programming, and events
• Work with PR and communications, and help to facilitate customer discovery.
• Drive ecosystem engagement and add value for portfolio companies through the provision of resources and support.
• Create and curate a curriculum of lessons learned and best practices for founders.
• Assist with framing story-telling for fundraising and provide coaching on pitch strategy.
• Manage outsourced, third-party service providers effectively.
• Initiate and lead special projects such as surveys, reports, and research to support the growth of the portfolio, including market research and go to market strategies.

Qualifications

• 5-7+ years of experience in a relevant field, such as consulting, tech, private equity, venture capital, or startup operations/strategy.
• Empathy towards founders and experience building startups.
• Strong networking skills and the ability to connect people effectively.
• Proactive problem-solving approach and ability to work independently.
• Strategic approach combined with the ability to complete tactical duties.
• Excellent multitasking and organizational skills.
• Previous experience working with startups or at a startup.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and persuasively.
• Aptitude for managing a team.
• Genuine interest in, and familiarity with, the startup and venture capital ecosystem, preferably with existing ties in the USA network.

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