Business Development & Partnerships Associate
Top Benefits
About the role
Why Upgraded?
We're building the App Store for AI Work— an AI-driven end-to-end platform that discovers, qualifies, drafts, and applies for every grant, tax credit, and subsidy a startup is eligible for. We're deeply technical, fast-paced, and system-focused, with a performance-first business model: no win, no fee.
Upgraded helps high-growth tech startups unlock an average of $104k/year in savings, close to without lifting a finger. That's possible because our AI and automation uncover funding opportunities missed by human teams. Our promise? If we don't deliver results, clients don't pay.
The Role
We're looking for a Business Development & Partnerships Associate who thrives at the intersection of relationship-building, strategic thinking, and growth. You'll play a key role in expanding our reach through channel partnerships, referral networks, and new client acquisition—turning warm introductions into long-term revenue.
This role is perfect for someone who loves opening doors, building authentic relationships, and is energized by the challenge of scaling a fast-growing company through smart partnerships.
What You'll Do
Identify, develop, and manage strategic partnerships with accountants, CFOs, fractional finance leaders, and professional services firms Build and nurture referral networks that drive qualified leads to Upgraded Own outbound prospecting and relationship development with high-growth tech startups Collaborate with leadership to shape partnership strategy and go-to-market initiatives Represent Upgraded at industry events, meetups, and conferences Track pipeline activity, partnership performance, and revenue attribution in our CRM Work closely with our delivery team to ensure smooth handoffs and exceptional client experiences
What We're Looking For
2-4 years of experience in business development, partnerships, sales, or related roles A track record of building relationships that drive measurable business results Strong communication skills—you can hold your own in a room full of CFOs and founders Familiarity with the startup ecosystem, SaaS, or professional services is a plus Experience with government funding, grants, or tax credits is a bonus (not required) Comfortable working autonomously in a fast-paced, startup environment CRM proficiency and a data-driven approach to tracking your work Based in Vancouver or willing to work hybrid from our office
What We Offer
Competitive base salary + uncapped commission structure
Equity participation in a high-growth AI company Flexible hybrid work environment Direct access to leadership and opportunity to shape company strategy A team that moves fast, celebrates wins, and doesn't take itself too seriously
Apply Now
Want me to adjust the tone, add compensation ranges, or tweak the requirements?
Not the right fit? Search for Business Development & Partnerships Associate jobs in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
About Upgraded
Upgraded helps software, hardware, and venture-backed startups claim tax credits, grants, technology savings & other hard-to-see opportunities.
We help unlock hundreds of thousands of dollars in working capital for clients through four pillars:
- Government Programs/Grants: average mid-sized company leaves $86k/employee
- AI Solutions/Automations: 47% of white collar work is automatable
- Tech Savings: save 10 to 50% on tech spend
- Inexpensive Financing: VC IRR is ~40%, their IRR is your cost of capital
We are completely performance based:
- Only work together if >$75k savings likely
- We only make money if you do
- Our interests are closely aligned
Similar Jobs
Business Development & Partnerships Associate
Top Benefits
About the role
Why Upgraded?
We're building the App Store for AI Work— an AI-driven end-to-end platform that discovers, qualifies, drafts, and applies for every grant, tax credit, and subsidy a startup is eligible for. We're deeply technical, fast-paced, and system-focused, with a performance-first business model: no win, no fee.
Upgraded helps high-growth tech startups unlock an average of $104k/year in savings, close to without lifting a finger. That's possible because our AI and automation uncover funding opportunities missed by human teams. Our promise? If we don't deliver results, clients don't pay.
The Role
We're looking for a Business Development & Partnerships Associate who thrives at the intersection of relationship-building, strategic thinking, and growth. You'll play a key role in expanding our reach through channel partnerships, referral networks, and new client acquisition—turning warm introductions into long-term revenue.
This role is perfect for someone who loves opening doors, building authentic relationships, and is energized by the challenge of scaling a fast-growing company through smart partnerships.
What You'll Do
Identify, develop, and manage strategic partnerships with accountants, CFOs, fractional finance leaders, and professional services firms Build and nurture referral networks that drive qualified leads to Upgraded Own outbound prospecting and relationship development with high-growth tech startups Collaborate with leadership to shape partnership strategy and go-to-market initiatives Represent Upgraded at industry events, meetups, and conferences Track pipeline activity, partnership performance, and revenue attribution in our CRM Work closely with our delivery team to ensure smooth handoffs and exceptional client experiences
What We're Looking For
2-4 years of experience in business development, partnerships, sales, or related roles A track record of building relationships that drive measurable business results Strong communication skills—you can hold your own in a room full of CFOs and founders Familiarity with the startup ecosystem, SaaS, or professional services is a plus Experience with government funding, grants, or tax credits is a bonus (not required) Comfortable working autonomously in a fast-paced, startup environment CRM proficiency and a data-driven approach to tracking your work Based in Vancouver or willing to work hybrid from our office
What We Offer
Competitive base salary + uncapped commission structure
Equity participation in a high-growth AI company Flexible hybrid work environment Direct access to leadership and opportunity to shape company strategy A team that moves fast, celebrates wins, and doesn't take itself too seriously
Apply Now
Want me to adjust the tone, add compensation ranges, or tweak the requirements?
Not the right fit? Search for Business Development & Partnerships Associate jobs in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
About Upgraded
Upgraded helps software, hardware, and venture-backed startups claim tax credits, grants, technology savings & other hard-to-see opportunities.
We help unlock hundreds of thousands of dollars in working capital for clients through four pillars:
- Government Programs/Grants: average mid-sized company leaves $86k/employee
- AI Solutions/Automations: 47% of white collar work is automatable
- Tech Savings: save 10 to 50% on tech spend
- Inexpensive Financing: VC IRR is ~40%, their IRR is your cost of capital
We are completely performance based:
- Only work together if >$75k savings likely
- We only make money if you do
- Our interests are closely aligned