CALL4EXPERTS

Position description

Once the programme was launched, it became clear that further technical support for start-ups was needed. For this reason, TONDO – Taranto CirTech is launching a new call exclusively for technical mentors, aimed at companies, to support teams in defining and developing the technological aspects of their projects.

Taranto CirTechis is an acceleration program dedicated to the transition toward a circular and regenerative economy in Southern Italy. Promoted by Tondo with the support of public institutions, businesses, and local stakeholders, the project aims to develop skills, generate sustainable entrepreneurial ideas, and strengthen the innovation ecosystem in Taranto.

Role of technical mentor

With scientific, engineering or technological expertise, mentors help teams build robust solutions that can be prototyped and integrated into local contexts. They will be responsible for:

– Scientific and engineering support (deep tech, biotechnology)

– Guidance during experimentation and prototyping phases

– Strengthen the ability of start-ups to integrate innovative and sustainable technologies into their business models.

The mentor will support start-ups in transforming their ideas into concrete, scalable and sustainable solutions. The interventions will be tailored to the needs of each project and will take the form of individual or group meetings.

Who we are looking for

Specialized companies with at least five years of relevant experience as mentors, advisors, or trainers, who have gained substantial practical experience and developed concrete case studies. A strong background in one or more of the following areas is also preferred:

We are looking for motivated individuals with a strong collaborative spirit and a systemic vision, capable of clearly transferring knowledge and working effectively with interdisciplinary teams.

Contract duration and conditions

Contract:
Companies: professional assignment with company VAT number.

Format: hybrid (possible in-person meetings in Taranto + online sessions)

Commitment: The mentor will be assigned up to a maximum of 2 teams. For each team, up to 4 meetings are planned, each lasting between 1 and 2 hours, for an estimated total of approximately 16 hours of meetings.
In addition, up to 4 hours are allocated for preparation, follow-up, coordination, and drafting of the final report. As this is an external consultancy activity, it must be documented through a report clearly outlining the activities carried out, the objectives addressed, and the results achieved. The indicative total commitment is therefore approximately 20 hours if the Mentor supports two teams. Depending on the needs of the program and the startups, some Mentors may be involved in additional support activities exceeding the indicated number of hours, subject to prior agreement with the organization.

Compensation: €70/80 per hour + VAT in the case of companies.

Duration: September 2025

Association description

Tondo supports analyses, studies, scientific research, projects, pilot initiatives, and operational activities aimed at safeguarding and improving environmental conditions, as well as promoting the wise and rational use of natural resources, in line with the principles of the Circular Economy.

Tondo aims to accelerate the transition toward a Circular Economy by driving the shift of the economic system toward one that is regenerative and restorative. The association’s main objectives are:

• To foster the further development of entrepreneurial and innovative activities within the circular economy by generating and sharing knowledge;
• To create a broad and diverse ecosystem actively engaged in various areas of the circular economy;
• To experiment with new and innovative solutions through its network of partners by implementing specific projects.

How to apply

Send your CV to info@tondo.tech, specifying in the subject line:
“CALL FOR MENTORS – Taranto CirTech | Technical Mentor #2”

Deadline: 31 August 2025