Driving Regional Economic Success Through Student-Led Consulting
The Business Growth Mentor and Analysis Program at WSU Vancouver connects Carson College of Business students with regional small businesses and nonprofit organizations to drive regional economic development. Through pro bono consulting, student teams provide actionable insights that help local enterprises scale, streamline operations, and increase revenue. This collaborative initiative serves as a cornerstone for student resources, offering hands-on experience that prepares undergraduates for future leadership roles while channeling vital university talent back into the local economy.
Since inception, the program has delivered thousands of hours of strategic consulting to hundreds of small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Student consultant teams empower local organizations with data-driven recommendations, creating measurable financial outcomes and fostering regional business health. Backed by dedicated community mentors and university sponsors, the program bridges academic excellence with real-world business application.
Program Impact and Achievements
- Pro Bono Consulting: Student business consultant teams have provided approximately 170,000 hours of strategic consulting to more than 400 small businesses and nonprofit organizations.
- Economic Development: Participating businesses generated more than $18 million in new revenues, fueling the local economy.
- Client Success: Fully 100% of participating clients plan to implement a recommendation provided by their student business consultant team.
Community Mentors and Volunteers
Dedicated business leaders share their time and expertise with student teams, committing substantial hours to consulting projects throughout the academic year.
- Expert Guidance: A total of 26 volunteer mentors guided student teams, providing real-world insight and professional development.
- Program Growth: The initiative welcomed eight new volunteer mentors to the program this past academic year.
Donors and Sponsors
Generous financial support allows the program to maintain its positive impact on student success and community growth.
- Jane and Joe Cote (Cote Faculty Fellowships and MAP Student Internship)
- U.S. Bank
Business Growth MAP Program
Netzhammer Hall
Washington State University Vancouver
14204 NE Salmon Creek Avenue
Vancouver, WA 98686
Business Growth MAP supporters
Without the generous support of sponsors, Business Growth MAP could not have the positive impact that it has on our students and the community.
