Carson College Student Consultants Move Regional Businesses Forward
By Kerby Boschee, Carson College of Business
Share on Twitter | Share on Facebook | Share on LinkedIn | Email | Share with Link
Regional businesses can now benefit from a semester of free consulting support from Washington State University Vancouver business students, guided by faculty and experienced business leaders.
Through the Carson College of Business' Business Growth Mentor & Analysis Program (Business Growth MAP), student teams assist businesses and nonprofits in analyzing challenges, identifying opportunities, and developing growth strategies. This hands-on consulting experience gains students valuable real-world experience.
A Win-Win Scenario
The Business Growth MAP program pairs regional businesses and nonprofits with Carson College student teams. Students work alongside faculty and volunteer business mentors to conduct research, analyze challenges, pinpoint opportunities, and create strategic recommendations tailored to each client.
Both businesses and students reap significant benefits: businesses gain professional-quality analysis and recommendations without consulting fees, while students gain practical consulting experience.
Impressive Results
During the 2025-26 academic year, 16 businesses participated in the program. All clients expressed satisfaction and intended to implement at least one recommendation from their student teams.
Since its inception in 2011, Business Growth MAP students have contributed approximately 175,000 hours of pro bono consulting support to over 415 small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Their efforts have generated more than $18.5 million in new revenue, according to program data.
Recognizing Outstanding Projects
Each year, the program highlights exceptional student consulting projects. This year, MOTOCO and Mortons Barbecue & Catering were awarded the Outstanding Team Project Awards.
Washougal-based MOTOCO, a motorcycle parts, service, and accessories company, partnered with a student team tackling market analysis, customer research, inventory management, and operational efficiency.
The team from Mortons Barbecue & Catering focused on marketing strategies, pricing optimization, and operational improvements.