Business Development & Partnerships Manager

GATEWAY; San Francisco (CA); Remote; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A startup platform is looking for a Mid–Senior Business Development/Partnerships Manager. The role is remote and flexible, focusing on building partnerships with VCs and founder communities. Ideal candidates should have a proven background in business development, strong networking skills, and a passion for the startup ecosystem. Competitive compensation includes equity and a salary within $90,000-$120,000 plus performance incentives.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in business development, sales, or partnerships in tech, startups, or venture capital.
• Strong networking skills with investors and entrepreneurs.
• A closer's mindset to turn leads into partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Build partnerships with VCs, angel groups, and founder communities.
• Secure early wins by bringing in the first success stories on Gateway.
• Collaborate with founders and community teams to drive traction.

Skills

Business development

Sales

Networking

Partnerships

Job description

ABOUT GATEWAY

At Gateway, we’re bringing back the American Dream — giving founders the tools to grow their ideas into businesses, while providing investors smarter ways to back bold ideas and unlock new revenue opportunities. Because at Gateway, anyone can be a founder, and anyone can be an investor.

Job Type: Remote, Flexible, Full-Time (Founding Team)

Compensation: Initial compensation is equity-based (founding team equity package, depending on experience and role). Once funding closes, the role includes a competitive salary in the range of $90,000-$120,000 plus performance incentives tied to partnerships and growth — all on top of your equity ownership.

Schedule: Flexible / Remote

Experience Level: Mid–Senior Business Development / Partnerships Manager

ROLE DESCRIPTION

• Build partnerships with VCs, angel groups, accelerators, and founder communities.
• Secure early wins by bringing in the first founder–investor success stories on Gateway.
• Validate the market and position Gateway as the go-to platform for startup connections.
• Collaborate with founders, growth, and community teams to drive traction.
• Lead outreach to top investors, founder networks, and ecosystems that amplify growth.
• Represent Gateway at startup events, demo days, and networking nights.
• Drive deal flow by actively connecting founders and investors to spark momentum.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• Proven experience in business development, sales, or partnerships (preferably in tech, startups, or venture capital).
• Strong networking skills and ability to connect with both investors and entrepreneurs.
• A closer’s mindset — you know how to turn a warm lead into a signed partnership.
• Entrepreneurial spirit: scrappy, creative, and ready to stick it out when things get tough.
• Passion for the startup ecosystem and belief in the Gateway mission.