"Working with the students during the Net Impact Consulting Program was a very rewarding experience. Not only did they approach each task with professionalism and a strong work ethic, but they also demonstrated a genuine passion for making a positive impact. [...] ultimately delivering outcomes that will have a lasting impact on our organization. I highly recommend the Net Impact Consulting Program to any organization [...]. Working with these students was truly a pleasure, and I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with them again in the future."

Steve Merila, NETZRO Project Sponsor

"Through the Impact Consulting program, I learned how to manage a team, ask the right questions to get informative answers, and create a creative marketing strategy. Our startup, Phoam Labs,[...] I enjoyed learning about the product and market, and how sustainable products can be introduced to the market to gain consumer interest. This program allowed me to take on a unique challenge and grow my skills as a business student."

Katelin Plesac, member of Net Impact

"I really enjoyed the Impact Consulting program because I gained experience with several important business skills for the first time. Participating in this program as a first semester freshman, I had learned very little about business up to this point, so getting first hand experience doing market research for a small company called Taperk was very valuable."

Samantha Bower, member of Net Impact

"My time in the Impact Consulting Program was very enriching. I worked with NetZro and I acquired many valuable experiences and skills I still use to this day! I learned the intricate processes surrounding food upcycling for a circular economy. [...] Working with NetZro has given me insight [...] also how I can incorporate sustainability into my future career. Net Impact’s Impact Consulting program is one I would recommend to anyone (even if you’re not a Carlson student)!"

Jenna Feng, member of Net Inpact

"The Impact consulting program has helped me gain real-life experience starting in my Freshman year of college. I’ve been able to work with unique startups that are making huge progress in the world of sustainability while also building my resume. "

Ava Jovaag

Impact Consulting was formed in 2019 by UMN Carlson student Julia Westling. She led a pilot project with the nonprofit Fair Anita. Since then Carlson students Madison Romain and Katie Shin have led our program and expanded our network of collaborators and meaningful projects. Impact Consulting has continued to grow, connecting with b corps, University programs, and nonprofits in Dinkytown and across the Twin Cities. 

Year after year, teams of students are paired with one of these organizations and embark on a semester-long project. Typical tasks include: surveying, data analysis, research, marketing, branding, design, technological help, and more. 

We are proud of these undergraduate students and their hard work for the community. We’re excited to keep building partnerships and supporting purpose-driven organizations. Interested in collaborating? Check out our full list of partners below!