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91�㽶��Ƶ (NPC) is seeking to partner with local businesses and non-profit organizations for a newly launched free student-led business improvement plan program. The program is designed to bring real-world solutions and fresh insight from the classroom to the conference room as part of NPC’s new Bachelor of Applied Management (BAM) degree program.

Students nearing completion of their bachelor’s degree will work virtually with partnering organizations seeking solutions and strategies to everyday business challenges. NPC Business and Economics Faculty and chair, Rachel Townsend, said, “We want to connect our talented students with businesses interested in exploring what the students might bring to the table regarding some of the challenges they face. Our students are ready to explore and offer advice on anything from marketing and process optimization to finance, human resources, supply chain management, and more.” The program is 100% free, 100% virtual, with zero obligations, and is available to any business or organization in Navajo or Apache Counties, and beyond.

“This is an opportunity for organizations to get unique and actionable recommendations at no cost, while providing students valuable hands-on learning and workforce experience,” Townsend explained, “It’s a collaborative opportunity where students and local businesses can grow together.”

To join, interested organizations must complete an online interest form at www.npc.edu/bam. Students and instructors will then meet virtually with the business owner or representative to discuss their goals. NPC students will spend four weeks researching solutions and building an improvement plan tailored to the business’s needs. Upon completion, students will present the final plan to the partnering entity. There is no charge for the work, no commitment to implement the plan, and if interested, the partnering business can come back and have students continue researching and developing further solutions.”

According to Townsend, “the goal is to connect students with real businesses to help them understand the hurdles local businesses face. They will be able to work outside of the box, on real-world cases using current industry trends and techniques. Our students can help businesses and organizations in areas they may not have time or resources to look at or work on.” She said, “It doesn’t matter the size or industry, all businesses face challenges. The solution just might be a fresh pair of eyes looking at it differently.” She conveyed, “Our applied management degree-seeking students are ready to apply the knowledge and skills they have studied to help businesses succeed.”

For more information on the student business improvement plan partnerships and NPC’s Applied Management Bachelor’s degree program, visit www.npc.edu/BAM, contact Rachel Townsend at Rachel.townsend@npc.edu, or call (928) 532-6780.