North Dakota State University

The Small Business Institute is a customized, in-depth, confidential consulting service  for small businesses and a hands-on program for students in the College of Business to participate in real world business management experiences.

Services
Under the supervision of faculty members, teams of two to four senior-level or graduate students consult with the business client to obtain first-hand knowledge of the specific business and its operation. The program provides assistance in the following areas:

• Developing Business Plans
• Developing Marketing Plans
• Advertising strategies
• Cash flow management
• Collection and credit policies
• Computer information systems
• Hiring plans
• Information Systems
• Inventory control systems
• Management development
• Market surveys
• Marketing plans
• Site studies

 Benefits

• Clients of the Small Business Institute receive inexpensive consulting services, including, an in-depth objective analysis, a comprehensive written and oral management report, and a recommended plan of action.

• Students participating in the Small Business Institute gain valuable real-world experience through consulting with small business clients. Students use up-to-the-minute management knowledge to analysis and assist small business with their workplace needs, and in turn they enhance their:
  • Critical thinking, planning, organization, and time-management skills
  • Understanding of group dynamics and the work of teams
  • Understanding of entrepreneurship and career opportunities