Covid-19 has caused unprecedented economic upheaval and has impacted employees of all levels and businesses in all industries. Our goal is to create partnerships between talented and driven students who have lost internship opportunities, in combination with an alumni mentor, with local businesses in the Hamilton area to help the local economy thrive in the face of disruption caused by Covid-19.
Covid-19 has caused unprecedented economic upheaval and has impacted employees of all levels and businesses in all industries. Our goal is to create partnerships between talented and driven students who have lost internship opportunities, in combination with an alumni mentor, with local businesses in the Hamilton area to help the local economy thrive in the face of disruption caused by Covid-19.
The RBAC is undergoing a strategic review and we look forward to sharing updates on the future of the program soon.
The Raider Business Assitance Cooperative was founded in May 2020 in response to unprecedented disruption to both students and small businesses by the Covid-19 Pandemic. Created with the mission of providing opportunities to students and businesses alike, the RBAC pairs college students with businesses in project-based internships. By the beginning of August 2020, we had 35 students working with over 15 businesses across the country. Our goal is to create partnerships between talented and driven students, in combination with an alumni mentor, with small businesses to help local economies thrive in the face of disruption caused by Covid-19.
Through working with small businesses and local economic organizations, we are able to develop an understanding of what makes each town and business unique. Each business has its own needs and based on these needs, students with relevant experience and skills are matched with businesses on a project by project basis. Students, to ensure the quality of the work, have the opportunity to work with a mentor who guides them through the internship and acts as a learning resource.
As the world begins to return to normal, small businesses have an opportunity to grow, revitalize, and improve their business. Consumers are going to be eager to return to normal interactions with their favorite small businesses. RBAC internships will be able to help businesses seize the positive momentum and accelerate growth.
Students will work to complete projects that will directly impact the functioning of local businesses and shops while getting real-world experience and mentorship from Colgate alumni.
Mentors play an important role in sharing their experiences with current students as they apply their knowledge and experience to help businesses cope with extraordinary challenges. Mentors serve as a resource to students, not only helping them with their internship but helping to prepare students to succeed after graduation.