College presents stimulus of its own

While the federal government works to stimulate the economy, one college at Boise State is doing its part.

The College of Business and Economics is presenting the Spring 2009 Economic Turnaround Initiative, which aims to strengthen local businesses in need. The initiative’s goal is to serve local businesses on a first-come, first-serve basis between now and May.

“COBE has always been very closely aligned with local businesses,” Kirk Smith, associate dean for Graduate Studies and Executive Education for COBE, said. “Over the years we’ve completed many student projects and internships. However, this spring we have amplified our efforts to help more businesses than ever.”

The Economic Turnaround Initiative has many opportunities available and is currently in the planning stages. Requests are taken from interested businesses and then channeled to the correct department that will provide the proper aid.

“The requests have been quite varied,” Smith said. “We have been asked to help develop business strategy, marketing plans, employee manuals, pricing strategies; improve efficiencies, and more.”

COBE has helped businesses successfully in the past. The Idaho Youth Ranch saw an increase of $144,000 in revenue due to the college’s aid.

“We offer class projects, internships, faculty consulting, tech help and many other areas,” Trisha Stevens Lamb, manager of Public Relations and Communications at COBE, said. “Our goal is to help 200 businesses, and I think it will be well over that in the end. It’s a great win-win opportunity as we are providing valuable services and students are doing real-world work.”

Businesses interested in taking advantage of the Economic Turnaround Initiative should call 426-4950 or visit cobe.boisestate.edu.

CHRIS BODOVINITZ
Arbiter Journalist

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