Policy & Data Strategist for Tennessee's Startup Ecosystem

Launch Tennessee; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage (80% of individual

401(K) Retirement

Disability Insurance

Life and AD&D Insurance

Paid Time Off

Cell phone stipend

Pet-friendly office

Job summary

Launch Tennessee is seeking a strategic, data-driven Research & Policy Associate to evaluate Tennessee’s startup ecosystem and advance innovation policies. You will analyze state data, benchmark policies, and translate findings into visual reports for policymakers and funders.

In this role, you will craft policy briefs, support advocacy efforts, and collaborate with partners to improve capital access and commercialization.

Qualifications

• A degree in economics, public policy, statistics, business, or a similar field is preferred.
• Familiarity with economic development, particularly technology-driven economic development.
• Writing/data visualization
• Ability to confidently & concisely communicate in front of large groups
• Experience leading collaborative research projects.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to confidently engage with entrepreneurs, policy makers, academics, etc.
• Strong organizational skills and comfort managing multiple concurrent programs, deadlines, and stakeholder relationships.

Responsibilities

• Translate complex economic data into concise policy briefs and memos to support advocacy.
• Keep leadership updated on national entrepreneurship support models and policy changes.
• Clearly articulate opportunities for Tennessee founders based on data.
• Draft high-visibility public reports and presentations on initiatives like InvestTN, SBIR, TTAC.
• Deliver insights visually to legislators, agencies, partners, and the board.
• Support data and evaluation efforts with partners and vendors.
• Evaluate policy incentives and trends to keep Tennessee attractive.
• Maintain advocacy materials and ensure timely updates.

Skills

Data analysis

Data visualization

Policy communication

Public speaking

Project leadership

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

Economics / Public Policy degree preferred

Tools

Airtable

Job description

Launch Tennessee is seeking a strategic, data-driven Research & Policy Associate to evaluate Tennessee’s startup ecosystem and advance innovation policies. You will analyze state data, benchmark policies, and translate findings into visual reports for policymakers and funders.

In this role, you will craft policy briefs, support advocacy efforts, and collaborate with partners to improve capital access and commercialization.