Amplifying stories from the Rochester, MN entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Work With Us: Director of Communications
Director of Communications
Part-Time • 20 Hours/Week • Nonprofit • Rochester, MN
ABOUT COLLIDER FOUNDATION
Collider Foundation is a Rochester, MN-based nonprofit on a mission to make entrepreneurship more approachable and accessible — especially for those who face the greatest barriers to business ownership. Founded as a grassroots coworking community in 2016 and reborn as a nonprofit in 2019, Collider supports early-stage entrepreneurs through 1:1 startup coaching, low-cost business education, community coworking space, and the power of storytelling. We believe every great idea deserves a chance, and we work every day to build an inclusive, diverse, and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem right here in Rochester.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Collider Foundation is seeking a creative, mission-driven Director of Communications to join our small but mighty team on a part-time basis (20 hours/week). In this role, you will be the voice of Collider — shaping how we tell our story, engage our community, and communicate our impact to entrepreneurs, donors, partners, and the broader public.
This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful mark on the Rochester entrepreneurial ecosystem. The ideal candidate is a skilled communicator and storyteller who thrives in a collaborative, mission-focused environment and is passionate about supporting local small businesses and entrepreneurs.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Digital Presence & Marketing
• Develop, schedule, and publish engaging social media content across Collider's platforms; monitor performance metrics and adjust strategy accordingly
• Create and promote events through digital channels to drive awareness and attendance
• Maintain and update Collider's website with fresh content, news, and program information
• Apply consistent branding updates to team member reports and organizational materials
Organizational Storytelling & Content
• Craft compelling stories about Collider's entrepreneurs and programs through podcast episodes, written articles, and Q&A features
• Create and publish Collider-specific blog content that highlights the entrepreneurial community and organizational updates
• Produce the weekly Collider e-newsletter, curating relevant content and spotlighting community stories
Reports & External Communications
• Lead the development and design of quarterly and annual impact reports
• Write and distribute press releases for significant organizational news, milestones, and events
• Provide writing and editing support for grant applications and funder communications
• Create and maintain a library of up-to-date organizational communications materials, including one-pagers, talking points, and presentation templates
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
• 3+ years of experience in communications, marketing, journalism, or a related field
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills across multiple formats and audiences
• Proficiency with social media platforms and content scheduling tools
• Experience managing website content (Squarespace or similar CMS)
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines independently
• Genuine passion for entrepreneurship, small business, and community development
Preferred
• Experience working with a nonprofit organization
• Familiarity with grant writing or funder reporting
• Podcast production experience
• Graphic design skills (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar)
• Knowledge of the Rochester, MN entrepreneurial community
WHAT WE OFFER
• A flexible, part-time schedule of approximately 20 hours per week
• A collaborative, mission-driven team that deeply values your contributions
• The opportunity to amplify the stories of Rochester's most inspiring entrepreneurs
• Access to Collider's downtown Rochester coworking space
• A meaningful role at the heart of Rochester's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please send a resume, a brief cover letter describing your passion for this role, and two to three writing or content samples to pam@collider.mn with the subject line "Director of Communications Application." Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and especially welcome candidates who reflect the diverse communities Collider serves.
Work With Us: Collider Foundation Executive Director
Collider Foundation – Job Posting
Executive Director
Rochester, Minnesota | Full-Time, Exempt | $75,000 – $95,000
About Collider Foundation:
Collider Foundation is a Rochester, Minnesota-based nonprofit dedicated to activating, connecting, and empowering entrepreneurs. We serve as a central hub for the local entrepreneurial ecosystem—providing startup support, education, coworking, and storytelling initiatives that help early-stage businesses grow and thrive. Through collaborative partnerships with funders, civic leaders, and community institutions, Collider is building an inclusive economy where entrepreneurship is accessible to all.
Position Overview
The Executive Director (ED) provides strategic, operational, programmatic, and financial leadership to Collider Foundation. As the organization’s chief ambassador and ecosystem connector, the ED spends significant time building relationships with entrepreneurs, funders, partners, and community institutions while overseeing organizational strategy and program quality. The ED takes direction from a 10-person Board of Directors and works closely with them to strategically position and grow the organization.
The ideal candidate is a strategic leader who excels at relationship-building and fundraising, is comfortable leading grant cultivation efforts, representing Collider in the community, and building the collaborative infrastructure that enables a small, high-impact team to deliver outstanding programming.
Reporting Structure
Reports to: Board of Directors
Supervises: Director of Startup Support; Director of Communications; Director of Community Engagement
Primary Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership & Community Engagement (40%)
• Develop and execute the organization’s strategic plan in collaboration with the Board of Directors, ensuring alignment with Collider’s mission and long-term goals.
• Serve as the chief ambassador for Collider, cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with entrepreneurs, funders, partners, civic leaders, and community institutions.
• Maintain deep engagement with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, positioning Collider as a central connector and trusted resource.
• Represent Collider at community events, partner meetings, and public forums; serve on relevant community boards or committees as appropriate.
• Identify opportunities to expand or refine services, including 1:1 startup support, education cohorts, coworking, and storytelling initiatives.
2. Fundraising & Development Leadership (30%)
• Lead fundraising strategy and major donor/funder cultivation, working collaboratively with staff and board to secure the organization’s annual operating budget.
• Personally write or oversee high-priority grant proposals and lead strategic conversations with foundation officers and major donors.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with foundations, public funders, individual donors, and corporate sponsors.
• Work with development support staff to ensure timely grant reporting, compliance, and donor communications.
• Identify and pursue diversified revenue streams, including earned income, sponsorships, and program fees.
3. Program Oversight & Impact (15%)
• Oversee program design, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement across all offerings.
• Ensure high-quality support for early-stage businesses through education, mentorship, and individualized guidance.
• Develop and track metrics to assess program impact and communicate outcomes clearly to funders, partners, and the Board.
4. Financial & Operational Oversight (10%)
• Develop and monitor the annual operating budget in collaboration with the Board Treasurer, ensuring financial sustainability and alignment with nonprofit best practices.
• Oversee financial operations and work with contracted bookkeeper to ensure accurate financial reporting, cash flow management, and compliance.
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations, audits, and Board policies.
• Implement systems and processes that support efficiency, accountability, and scalability.
5. Team Leadership & Culture (5%)
• Lead and support a small, high-impact team of three directors.
• Set clear goals, monitor performance, and provide coaching and professional development.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and entrepreneurial organizational culture.
• Recruit, onboard, and retain staff in alignment with mission and growth objectives.
Required:
• 7–10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in nonprofit or profit management, entrepreneurship support, business management or acceleration economic development or related field.
• Experience with financial oversight, including budget development, monitoring organizational finances, and interpreting financial reports. Does not require hands-on bookkeeping experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading or significantly contributing to organizational strategy, growth, or program development.
• Strong understanding of early-stage business development and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, particularly in under-resourced or emerging ecosystems.
Preferred / Bonus Qualifications:
• Direct experience as a founder, small business owner, or startup advisor.
• Track record of raising $500K+ annually across multiple revenue streams.
• Experience managing public or government grants, including contracts, reimbursements, and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with the Rochester, MN entrepreneurial ecosystem, including local funders, educational institutions, and economic development partners.
• Experience leading organizations or programs through periods of transition, growth, or strategic realignment.
• Excellent relationship-building and networking skills; comfort representing the organization publicly and building authentic partnerships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate impact into compelling narratives for funders, partners, and the public.
• 5+ years of fundraising leadership experience, including developing strategy, cultivating major donors, and securing funding from foundations, public sources, individual donors, and corporate sponsors.
• Demonstrated grant writing experience, including writing compelling proposals, developing budgets, and managing funder relationships. Ability to personally write high- stakes proposals when needed.
• 3–5 years of people management experience, including supervising staff, setting goals, providing performance feedback, and supporting professional development.
• Ability to operate effectively in a hands-on, small-team environment, balancing strategic leadership with collaborative execution.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and expanding access to entrepreneurship opportunities.
• A bachelor’s or master’s degree is a plus, though candidates with demonstrated expertise and a strong track record of success are equally encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Collider Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to:
Pam Bishop, pam@collider.mn
Collider Welcomes Pam Bishop as Interim Executive Director
Collider is pleased to announce the appointment of Pam Bishop as Interim Executive Director. Pam will lead Collider through a transitional period while the Board of Directors conducts a comprehensive search for the organization’s next permanent executive director.
Pam brings decades of experience in regional economic development, nonprofit leadership, and entrepreneurial ecosystem building to Collider’s mission of activating, connecting, and empowering entrepreneurs in Rochester. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Economic Development with the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), where she led initiatives to strengthen small business growth and community vitality across the region.
Throughout her career, Pam has demonstrated a deep commitment to expanding opportunity for entrepreneurs and fostering vibrant local economies.
“We are thrilled to welcome Pam Bishop as Collider’s Interim Executive Director,” said Pamela York, Board Chair of Collider Foundation. “Her extensive experience leading economic and community development efforts, paired with her dedication to supporting entrepreneurs at all stages, makes her exceptionally well-suited to guide Collider during this transition. We look forward to her leadership as we continue to advance our vision and prepare for a successful next chapter.”
In her role as Interim Executive Director, Pam will oversee day-to-day operations, deepen partnerships within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and support the Board in shaping a thoughtful and inclusive search process for Collider’s next permanent executive director.
“I’m honored to serve as Collider’s Interim Executive Director,” said Pam Bishop. “Collider’s impact on entrepreneurs, innovators, and small business owners in Rochester is powerful and inspiring. I look forward to working with the team, partners, and community to build on that impact as we move forward together.”
This appointment underscores Collider’s commitment to strong leadership and strategic continuity as the organization continues to grow its programs and services for entrepreneurs in the region.
Media Contact:
Pamela York, Board Chair
Collider Foundation
(507)-722-0306
hello@collider.mn
Collider Foundation Announces Leadership Transition as Executive Director Amanda Leightner Accepts Role with City of Rochester
Collider celebrates exceptional growth and strong organizational foundation as it prepares for next chapter of impact
ROCHESTER, MN – Collider Foundation announced today that Executive Director Amanda Leightner will be departing to assume the role of Economic Mobility Specialist for the City of Rochester. During her tenure, Leightner led the organization through a period of extraordinary growth by expanding services to Rochester entrepreneurs and building a strong operational and financial foundation for continued impact.
Under Leightner's leadership alongside co-founder Traci Downs, Collider Foundation grew over tenfold in organizational capacity and impact. The Foundation greatly expanded its reach to over 250 entrepreneurs a year, added four new team members, and developed comprehensive programs focused on removing barriers and increasing access to capital for local entrepreneurial communities. The organization currently operates with a substantial financial runway and well-structured programs designed to scale.
"We are excited for Amanda and the professional opportunities this new role provides for her," said Pamela York, Board Chair of Collider Foundation. "For Collider, she has been an exceptional leader. Under her vision, we've grown our training and educational programs and entrepreneurial services significantly. The organization is ready to expand to the next level — by offering capital for business growth, creating a strategic hub for connections, and building even more partnerships across the community to systemically support entrepreneurship."
"It has been an honor to serve Collider and Rochester's entrepreneurial community," said Amanda Leightner. "I'm extremely proud of what we've accomplished together and excited to see the organization continue to grow and deepen its impact. This transition allows me to continue supporting economic opportunities in our community from a different vantage point, and I'm excited for Collider's future."
The Foundation will be conducting a comprehensive search for a new Executive Director. The Board of Directors is seeking a forward-looking leader excited to amplify Collider's scale and impact during this next era of organizational growth.
"The current team, with Amanda at the helm, has been a gamechanger for Rochester—everything is in place as she built a strong foundation and created an impressive trajectory of growth," former Board Chair, Traci Downs added. “I can’t wait to see how the next chapter of Collider unfolds; the sky’s the limit.”
The Foundation has deepened its impact as it joined the Rochester Economic Development Center, expanded programming with everything from CO.STARTERS to an intensive incubator program, enhanced connectivity opportunities, and increased social interaction and co-working space for entrepreneurs. These initiatives have created measurable pathways for Rochester entrepreneurs to access resources, start their businesses, and contribute to Rochester’s economic vitality.
About Collider Foundation
Collider Foundation supports entrepreneurs in Rochester, MN by removing barriers to success and increasing access to capital, training, and strategic connections. Through comprehensive programming and community partnerships, Collider empowers entrepreneurs to launch, grow, and scale their businesses while building a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. For more information, visit www.collider.mn
Media Contact:
Pamela York, Board Chair
Collider Foundation
(507)-722-0306
hello@collider.mn
Collider Foundation Receives Funding from CLA Foundation
Rochester 501(c)3 nonprofit Collider Foundation is thrilled to announce it has received a grant of $15,000 from the CLA Foundation. This grant is a testament to Collider’s ongoing work within the community and will enable Collider to continue its mission of empowering Rochester's entrepreneurs through startup support, business education, community focused coworking and storytelling. Collider believes that the support, education, and growth of our entrepreneurial ecosystem is a pathway to a more prosperous and inclusive future for the Rochester community.
“The CLA Foundation believes in the power of education, employment, and entrepreneurship to transform lives,” said Susan Carter, executive director of the CLA Foundation. “Our grants are designed to support organizations that embody these principles and strive to create lasting impacts within their communities. By funding initiatives that promote these three E’s, we’re helping to build a brighter future for all and further our commitment to be connected to the communities in which we live and work.”
The grant will be used to support various initiatives at Collider Foundation, including operational funding for its well established programming such as 1:1 startup support, cohort based education, inclusive storytelling, and a welcoming community space – all geared towards lowering barriers to entrepreneurship for those who need it most.
“CLA has been a long supporter and partner of the work done here at Collider. With a shared vision of how entrepreneurship can transform lives, we are extremely grateful for this generous support to foster new ideas and innovations and get business ideas off the ground in the Rochester community,” said Amanda Leighter, Collider Foundation Executive Director.
The CLA Foundation is a private 501(c)(3) organization. This foundation supports a variety of initiatives aimed at improving education, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities. The Foundation provides grants to support organizations as they advance their missions and make a tangible difference in their communities. The Foundation is exclusively funded by contributions from CLA family members and does not accept unsolicited grant proposals from external organizations.
For more information about the CLA Foundation, please visit Community Impact: CLA.
In 2016, Collider began as a for profit coworking space to serve the Rochester community and provide a place for innovation minded individuals to connect to spark new ideas. Recognizing that most of the work being performed was better served under a nonprofit model, Collider transitioned in 2019 to a 501(c)3 organization with the mission to activate, connect, and empower early stage entrepreneurs in Rochester, Minnesota. Since then, Collider has served over 1,488 Rochester-based entrepreneurs through 1:1 startup support, low-cost business education, a supportive community work environment, and a platform for the stories of local entrepreneurs. This year, its team aims to remove barriers for 300+ individuals within the community to open up inclusive, accessible pathways to business ownership.
For additional information about Collider and its work within the Rochester community, contact Amanda Leightner at amanda@collider.mn or call (507) 722-0306.