Kingston Economic Development Corporation is the lead economic development organization for the City of Kingston, Ontario. Our vision is to establish Kingston as one of Canada’s foremost leading sustainable economies: an inclusive, diverse city where individuals, and private and public enterprises thrive.

We have an immediate opening for a Business Programs & Community Outreach Coordinator to join our award-winning team. This is a full-time position supporting the delivery of programs and services that strengthen Kingston’s business ecosystem.

The Business Programs & Community Outreach Coordinator plays a key role in delivering small business programs—including Summer Company and Starter Company Plus—while managing an active schedule of events and workshops. As the first point of contact for many businesses, the Coordinator ensures businesses receive timely support and are connected with the right resources. With responsibilities ranging from coordinating events and logistics to marketing program opportunities, reporting and building strong community partnerships, the Coordinator is a champion for local business success.

This is an excellent opportunity for a dynamic, detail-oriented professional who enjoys working with entrepreneurs and fostering community connections. Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, and we will begin interviewing qualified candidates as they apply.

At the Kingston Economic Development Corporation, we know that a strong determination to excel and an eagerness to learn are as important to success as experience. The minimum experience requirements below outline the baseline for this broad-based, cross-community role. We encourage applications from individuals with a diverse range of professional and lived experiences and look forward to reviewing your application.

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Business Development Manager – Small & Medium Enterprises, the Business Programs & Community Outreach Coordinator supports the delivery of Kingston Economic Development’s core small business programs and services. The Coordinator is responsible for the successful administration and promotion of initiatives such as Summer Company and Starter Company Plus, as well as the coordination of a dynamic schedule of events, workshops, and community outreach activities.

Commitment to customer service excellence, strong organizational skills, and the ability to engage effectively with business owners, community partners, and invested parties are essential for success in this position.

Key Responsibilities

Advisory Services & Program Expansion

• Provide consultations to entrepreneurs and business owners on business start-up planning, marketing, and funding.
• Lead the coordination and delivery of entrepreneurship programs such as Summer Company and Starter Company Plus, ensuring strong participant experiences and program compliance.
• Develop and deliver business workshops, seminars, and events that build skills and connect entrepreneurs to resources.
• Promote and communicate available programs, funding streams, and community resources to support business success.
• Assist with the identification of new programs, services, and funding opportunities to expand support for entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Community Outreach

• Serve as the first point of contact for business inquiries, providing timely support and triaging requests to the appropriate team member.
• Foster partnerships with community organizations, service providers, and invested parties to expand opportunities for entrepreneurs.
• Coordinate and participate in networking events, workshops, and outreach activities to promote programs and services.
• Represent Kingston Economic Development in a professional and approachable manner, ensuring a welcoming experience for clients, partners, and guests.
• Support updates to the website, newsletters, and marketing collateral to enhance program visibility and engagement.

Program & Project Administration

• Manage project administration and reporting for business programs, ensuring compliance with funding agreements, timelines, and deliverables.
• Maintain accurate performance metrics, client records, and follow-up actions to support accountability and continuous improvement.
• Review grant-related expenses and validate program participant information for reporting.
• Track program outcomes and assist in preparing reports and presentations for internal and external parties.
• Support the program(s) application process and review applications for eligibility.
• Provide administrative and project support as requested.

Required Skills:

• Bilingual proficiency in French and English is highly desired.
• Strong understanding of business fundamentals, including planning, regulatory compliance, accounting, and marketing.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and collaborative platforms.
• Experience with Salesforce or other CRM systems is an asset; knowledge of Adobe tools and website content management systems is also beneficial.
• Excellent interpersonal, relationship management, and customer service abilities for engaging a diverse clientele.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and professionally.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain positive relationships.
• Adaptability and resilience in handling challenges and changes in a dynamic environment.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends in support of program or workshop delivery.

Education:

• A post-secondary education is required.
• A degree or certificate in a related field (economic development, business administration, marketing or economics) is considered favourably.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in business advisory, customer service, or a related business development role (advisory or frontline business services support)
• Experience working with small businesses, entrepreneurs, or start-ups is highly valued.
• Background in developing workshop content, coordinating workshops or events, and/or delivering presentations is considered an asset.
• Familiarity with project or program administration, reporting requirements, and compliance processes is an advantage.

Working Conditions:

Remote work or hybrid arrangements are not available with the Kingston Economic Development Corporation. Our head office is located at 420-366 King St. E. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. The position requires varied hours of work to carry out the duties as assigned.

What We Offer:

• Hiring salary between $45,000 and $60,000
• A comprehensive extended benefits package including pension contributions.
• Two weeks’ paid vacation
• Continuous learning culture with professional development support.

Why Join Us?

By joining Kingston Economic Development Corporation, you will play an integral role in fostering an ecosystem that attracts new investment and supports business growth. We believe diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental values that drive our success.

How to Apply?

Please submit an introductory cover letter and resume, in one document to careers@investkingston.ca by Wednesday, October 8, 2025. We ask that you include your name in the document title.

We believe diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental values that drive our success. The Kingston Economic Development Corporation is dedicated to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.

If you require accommodation for the application process, kindly email careers@investkingston.ca.