WKU News

A student team enrolled in the Entrepreneurship 496 Small Business Consulting course won $500 and the opportunity to attend the Small Business Institute Conference in New Orleans in February 2016 for the National Project of the Year Competition.

The Topper Consulting group, consisting of students Charles Hamilton, Chia Shen, Christin Stewart, Shelby Worthington, and Taylor Lambert, worked with Bowling Green business owners Ken and Lori Ann Jones of Drapery Nation, helping them with a business plan, marketing strategies, and financial assistance. The student group was chosen based on criteria provided by the Small Business Institute.

The consulting projects culminate with a formal final written case report, which is delivered to the client, along with a professional presentation of recommendations. Students gain hands-on experience in problem recognition and providing strategic recommendations for these businesses, which engages them in the community and provides a tangible impact to clients’ businesses.

“The most important thing I have learned during the performance of this project is how to work on a consulting project. I have more understanding about how to communicate with the client, how to research client needs, how to find a solution for the client, and how to address recommendations for the client,” said Chia Shen, entrepreneurship and management double major.

The second place team, Big Red Consulting, comprised of Jacob Earhart, Michael Fredrick, Miles Goodin, Paige Harrison, and Anthony Qualls worked with local business owners Nick and Nate Noble of Park Mammoth Resort. They received $250 and an alternate position for national competition.

A total of five student groups logged more than 1,300 consulting project hours for the small business clients.

 “The class was truly an effective learning experience for me and throughout the semester I think I have grown as a leader. That is something I can take with me into my career,” said Taylor Lambert, management major.

The Small Business Consulting course is offered as a capstone experience for senior-level business majors each spring. If you or a small business owner you know is interested in benefitting as a client of the program, please contact Dr. Whitney Peake via email (whitney.peake@wku.edu) or phone (270) 745-3531.