BuildEquity Student Consulting Program
Gain Real-World Consulting Experience While Supporting Houston Entrepreneurs
The BuildEquity Student Consulting Program connects University of Houston students with local entrepreneurs to solve real business challenges and support the growth of underrepresented small businesses throughout the Houston region. Developed through a partnership between BuildEquity Entrepreneurship Program, Impact Hub Houston and the University of Houston Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship/RED Labs, the program provides students with hands-on consulting experience while creating meaningful impact for participating businesses.
Over the course of four weeks, student teams work directly with entrepreneurs to evaluate business opportunities, conduct research, develop recommendations and present customized strategic solutions to local entrepreneurs. Participants gain valuable experience in client management, problem solving, teamwork and professional communication while expanding their understanding of entrepreneurship and small business growth.
Students who successfully complete all program requirements, including program sessions and project deliverables, will receive a $100 gift card in recognition of their time and contributions.
Why Participate?
Students selected for the program will:
- Work directly with real entrepreneurs and small business owners
- Gain practical consulting and project management experience
- Receive feedback from experienced mentors and business professionals
- Build professional skills and expand their network
- Strengthen their résumés through applied learning and community engagement
- Make a meaningful impact on Houston's entrepreneurial ecosystem
- Receive a $100 gift card in recognition of their time and contributions
How the Program Works
Session 1: Program Launch & Team Mixer
Students will be introduced to participating entrepreneurs, learn about the consulting projects and be assigned to multidisciplinary teams. During the session, teams will meet their entrepreneur client, begin discussing project goals and establish a schedule for client meetings and project milestones. Lunch and networking opportunities will be provided.
Date: October 9
Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (lunch provided)
Room: CBB 524
Session 2: Progress Check-In & Mentor Feedback
After meeting independently with their entrepreneur clients, teams will return to share project updates and receive guidance from experienced mentors. Participants will discuss challenges, refine recommendations and identify next steps for completing their projects.
Date: October 23
Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. (lunch provided)
Room: TBD
Session 3: Final Presentations
Teams will present their findings and recommendations to fellow participants, mentors and entrepreneur clients. The program concludes with submission of final deliverables, participant recognition and celebration of the impact created through the consulting projects.
Date: November 6
Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Off campus at The Ion - 4201 Main St., Houston, TX 77002
Program Commitment
Participants are expected to:
- Attend all three in-person program sessions
- Meet with their assigned entrepreneur client between sessions
- Complete team-based project work outside of scheduled meetings
- Deliver final recommendations and presentation materials at program completion
Who Should Apply?
The BuildEquity Student Consulting Program is open to motivated University of Houston students interested in entrepreneurship, consulting, business strategy, community impact and professional development. Students from all majors are encouraged to apply. Diverse perspectives and skill sets help create stronger solutions for participating businesses.
Apply Today
Space is limited. Students selected for the program will have a unique opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting while helping Houston entrepreneurs grow and thrive.
Applications are now open. Apply today to gain consulting experience, expand your network and support the growth of local businesses.