A: NVL is a student-run consulting firm at Gonzaga. Students apply what they have learned in the classroom to aid entrepreneurs with their business challenges.
A: Entrepreneurs complete an application describing their business and the area they want to improve. Student Program Directors interview the entrepreneur and, if accepted, the consulting team conducts structured discovery to identify and refine the focus of the engagement.
A: The scope emerges from a structured research and discovery process conducted by the consulting team during the first three weeks. Students research the business, study the competitive landscape, and meet with the entrepreneur to pressure-test their understanding of the challenge before the work direction is confirmed.
A: Entrepreneurs commit approximately one to two hours per week over nine weeks. This includes a weekly check-in with the consulting team and attendance at three key in-person meetings: the Kickoff Event, the Week 7 solution presentation, and the Week 9 final presentation.
A: The entrepreneur meets their team, explains the scope of work, and determines their meeting schedule. It's a crucial starting point for effective collaboration and communication.
A: Business Advisors with relevant professional experience coach Project Managers and Program Directors throughout the semester and conduct quality reviews at key milestones. Teams present to their entrepreneur, Advisor, and Program Director at Week 7 and Week 9.
A. During Week 9, the team presents their deliverables, slides, and Executive Summary to the entrepreneur in person. Program Directors conduct an exit interview where the entrepreneur can provide feedback on their experience.
A: A week following the final presentation, all teams and entrepreneurs come together to showcase and share their accomplishments during the semester.
A. Entrepreneurs should respond promptly to team questions, attend both scheduled presentations, and bring genuine openness to the team's findings. The engagements that produce the most useful outcomes are ones where the entrepreneur shares honest information about what is and is not working in their business.
A: Startups, established businesses, non-profits, and even entrepreneurs with an idea can apply! We also encourage projects that involve any academic disciplines, too.
A. It is ideal for entrepreneurs to be in Spokane, but we can make acceptances on a case-by-case basis.
A: There is no cost, so we can encourage entrepreneurs to offer their time to guide these students as they apply their new skills to solve real-world business challenges.
Student FAQs
A: The New Venture Lab program is a student-run consulting organization. It provides hands-on business experience by completing projects with entrepreneurs in a real-world business setting.
A: Complete the application (on this page). Have questions? Reach out to us at: newventurelab@gonzaga.edu.
A: No, any major is encouraged to apply!
A: Projects span marketing strategy, market research, financial analysis, operations, and branding, among others. Students conduct structured discovery in the early weeks to define the problem before moving into analysis and solution development. Deliverables are research-based and built to be implemented by the entrepreneur after the engagement ends.
A: Teams are formed based on a combination of skills and interests. A Project Manager leads each team, and consultants collaborate on various aspects of the project, such as research, analysis, and strategy development.
A: While we consider preferences, teams are often formed based on a combining skills and project needs to ensure a well-rounded and productive collaborative experience.
A: The program structure fosters hands-on learning and real-world business experience. Students come away with a deeper appreciation of owning a business and understanding how to manage and solve challenges.
A: Students attend regular team meetings, client interactions, and project-related tasks over nine weeks within the semester. Hours spent per week may vary depending on the project and delegation of tasks from the Project Manager.
A: Yes, students can apply for multiple semesters. The program evolves based on feedback and the changing landscape of businesses, ensuring each semester presents new challenges and opportunities.
A: Students receive onboarding before the semester begins covering the consulting process, weekly deliverable expectations, and how to work effectively with entrepreneurs and Advisors. Program Directors provide ongoing support throughout the nine weeks.
A: Regular check-ins, reporting sessions, and direct communication with program directors and mentors provide students constructive feedback and guidance throughout the program to support their learning journey.
A: Yes, the program fosters networking opportunities through interactions with entrepreneurs, Program Directors, mentors, and fellow students. Events throughout the semester allow students to make valuable connections that may extend past their time at Gonzaga.
A: The program provides practical experience, exposure to real-world business challenges, and the opportunity to build a portfolio of work. It enhances your skills, boosts your resume, and prepares you for future career opportunities in various industries.
