Montana State University’s Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship is seeking local and regional businesses and non-profit organizations that are willing to offer students practical business experience in return for research, issue analysis or operational advice during the upcoming fall semester, which runs from Aug. 28 through Dec. 8.

Participating students will be enrolled in “BMGT 463—Entrepreneurial Experience” or “BMGT 475R – Management Experience.” Both are senior-level courses taught by Gary Bishop, associate teaching professor of management. Bishop said the entrepreneurial experience course is primarily focused on new start-up organizations or small, locally owned businesses. The management experience course focuses on more established businesses, as well as civic and non-profit organizations.

During the courses, students will help manage special consulting projects requested by area businesses and non-profit organizations. Past projects have included developing business, marketing and financial plans, identifying ways to improve businesses, suggesting solutions to problems, re-branding businesses, developing websites and social networking sites, market and competition analysis, sales analysis, feasibility studies, assisting with human resources and customer services issues, developing employee training and handbooks, and other business and management processes.

Businesses and organizations that wish to participate in the fall are invited to apply to the MSU Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Applications are due by Aug. 4.

In addition, the college has an internship program known as Student Entrepreneurs in Action. As part of the program, local businesses and organizations may apply to host a college intern from the program to work with the business or organization for 10 to 20 hours per week. In some instances, the student may work with the business or organization at no cost.

Application materials for both programs may be obtained by contacting Linda Ward at 994-1995 or lward@montana.edu or Gary Bishop at 994-7017 or gbishop@montana.edu. More information also is available online at http://www.montana.edu/business/e-center/for-companies.html.