The Polsky Small Business Growth Program supports small business owners to help them grow and scale their businesses through consulting work completed by top student talent. Small teams of University of Chicago students provide hands-on consulting experience to these companies, helping them address key business challenges and determine new strategies for business growth. With funding from JPMorgan Chase, and in partnership with the Office of Civic Engagement, this program is part of the nationwide Ascend 2020 program, which partners with top universities and institutions to provide business assistance and opportunities for minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned businesses.

Student consultants will carry out a full consulting project while working closely with small businesses to address challenges related to growth and innovation. The students will receive training on growth marketing and innovation topics, research and analysis approaches, the consulting process, and client relations. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with University of Chicago Booth School of Business professor Craig Terrill and will receive compensation for their project work.

WHO SHOULD APPLY?
University of Chicago undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to apply to serve as business consultants. Preference will be given to students with a demonstrated interest in business management, entrepreneurship, small businesses, social impact through economic growth in an urban setting, or consulting.