What Happens If You Get Caught With a Fake ID at a Bar?

November 2023 Newsletter

 

Design Equitable Enterprises in the Winter +Impact Studio Course

Professors: Cat Johnson, Jerry Davis |  Credits: 3
Winter 2024


The +Impact Studio graduate course (BA670) prepares students to be architects of an equitable, just, and sustainable future. In Winter ’24, this award-winning course will focus on the green energy transition.  We will be engaging with neighborhood partners in Detroit to design equitable and feasible business models for innovative green energy models that support communities. The course is 3 credits and will be offered to all graduate students on Wednesday mornings during the Winter semester.  This course received an Aspen Business & Society Ideas Worth Teaching Award in recognition of its expansive purpose, innovative thinking, and integrated, multi-disciplinary approach.

Read a new Medium Post about the Winter ’24 +Impact Studio course.

MORE INFO


Working in the ESG Space – A Panel Discussion

Mon, Nov. 27 @ 5-6 pm ET
Virtual

Join us for a panel discussion about working in ESG. Ross alums and leaders in the ESG space will share their experiences, insights, and recommendations around working in ESG and tips for recruiting.

RSVP HERE


We are proud to announce our 2023-24 B+I Student Ambassadors — graduate and undergraduate students from the Ross School of Business and other peer schools who represent the student voice for the B+I initiative. Many of these students have participated in our programs or received funding or scholarships from us, and have been actively involved in the numerous impact activities at U-M.

LEARN MORE

 

 


B+I’s New Executive-in-Residence

Business+Impact  is proud to announce our newly-recognized Executive-in-Residence, Dr. Neil C. Hawkins! Neil Hawkins has spent a career collaborating to define a positive and impactful role for business in global sustainable development and public policy. For 31 years, he was a key leader at Dow, ultimately serving as Chief Sustainability Officer and CVP for Environment, Health, and Safety. He has also served as President of the Erb Family Foundation currently is interim CEO and President of the World Environment Center. B+I staff and students are excited to engage with and learn from the wealth of experience Dr. Hawkins brings to this position.

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE SPOTLIGHT

Sea Spider

Almost half of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a floating island of trash twice the size of Texas, is made up of discarded fishing gear. This gear, called ghost fishing nets, strangle marine life and block sun from contributing to the underwater ecosystem. Sea-Spider uses artificial intelligence, in conjunction with existing technology, to predict when and where nets can be found and ultimately removed.

Read more

Ross Events:

 

Impact Gala

Mon, Dec. 4 @ 6-8 pm
University of Michigan Museum of Art

Community Case Competition, Net Impact @ Ross, and Detroit Impact @ Ross invite you to celebrate the conclusion of our Fall Impact Cases and build community with one another! Co-sponsored by Business+Impact.

RSVP on CampusGroups

 


Highlights from DNEP

The Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project is now part of the B+I stable of offerings, bringing together small businesses in Detroit with UM faculty-supervised student teams to provide a learning experience for students and solve business’ legal, financial, marketing, operational, and design challenges. Below are some highlights.

DNEP Holiday Market

Fri, Dec. 15 @ 3-8 pm
Jam Handy
2900 E. Grand Blvd., Detroit

Shop from a variety of local minority-owned businesses, including apparel, food, jewelry, artisans, and more at DNEP’s Holiday Market!  Support local Detroit Businesses while finding unique gifts for this holiday season. There is a shortage of affordable indoor market spaces available for micro-businesses, making it hard for businesses who do not have a brick and mortar to participate in #ShopSmall campaigns.

MORE INFO

NEWS:


InterMission – An Action-Learning Expedition (MO 330)

Professor: Kevin Thompson
Credits: 3 | Winter 2024

Presented in cooperation with B+I, InterMission is a self-leadership course for students adrift in a sea of expectations who are exceptional at fulfilling goals set by others but find themselves too busy to reflect on whether they are the right thing to do.  The course includes a one-week wilderness expedition in Utah’s Canyonlands with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). The wilderness expedition is strenuous and has an incremental cost.  InterMission has 10 classroom sessions of 90 minutes each and 7 intensive days on the wilderness expedition, which runs at the conclusion of winter term before summer internships. The classroom sessions will utilize and apply three rigorous, science-based frameworks developed at Harvard Business School, Virginia’s Darden School, and Michigan Ross.

View the syllabus

 


See All of the Impact Courses Offered in Winter 2024

Continuously updated for current students, our listing covers hundreds of impact undergraduate and graduate courses for impact at Michigan Ross, across campus, and online. Courses in social impact and sustainability, as well as social justice and world issues are shown. Constantly updated, the list shows the most up-to-date courses actually available to students currently registering for the Winter ’24 semester. It’s just a part of our larger Impact Gateway.

LINK TO COURSE LISTING

Image of Impact Gateway homepage.

A Searchable Platform for All Things Impact at Ross and Across Campus


The Business+Impact Gateway provides you with a single location for all things impact. Here you’ll find all of the activities, people and key partners working to use their learning to make a real impact in the world. 

IMPACT GATEWAY

Impact News and Notes

At the University:

 

FORD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC POLICY

Diversity Alliance: Pathways to Public Policy

Tues, Nov. 14 @ 8-9 pm ET
Virtual Event

Topics of discussion with our alumni will include Unique pathways into careers in public policy; diversity, equity, and inclusion in the public policy work place; policy implications of current events; and mentorship and impact opportunities.

More Info


DESAI ACCELERATOR

Start-up and Intern Applications


Startup Applicaton Due
Intern Application Due
Tues, Nov. 14

Join the Desai Community! We look for early-stage companies founded by upcoming or recent University of Michigan – Ann Arbor graduates. We prefer companies with demonstrated product-building capability, market validation, and an exceptional team dynamic with the ability to execute quickly.

Start-up Application    |    Intern Application


SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK

Social Work Events


Drawing on an interdisciplinary faculty within a public university seated in a region of enormous need and promise, School of Social Work events share education, research, and service that fosters progressive change for students, faculty and staff.

ENGAGE Community Engagement Showcase – Wed, Nov. 15

Unity in Diversity Dinner – Thurs, Nov. 16

A Microaffirmation Approach Toward Understanding Mental Health and Well-Being Among Black Male College Students – Thurs, Nov. 30

Community and Social Change Info Session – Wed, Dec. 6

Exploring a Social Justice Career Path – Thurs, Dec. 7

Promoting Action for Intersectional Social Justice – Mon, Dec. 11
 


PLANET BLUE

Sustainability Honors Cords


Orders Due
Fri, Nov. 17

The Excellence in Sustainability Honors Cord program is designed to recognize students who went above and beyond to advance their knowledge, skills, and practice of sustainability ethics while studying at the University of Michigan. The acceptance to the Excellence in Sustainability Honors Cord program will allow students to receive an Excellence in Sustainability Honors Cord for graduation, join an exclusive alumni LinkedIn network, and be part of a sustainability spotlight series.

Learn More


GLOBAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM

Global Scholars Applications


Fall & Winter 2024 Deadline
Sun, Dec. 3


GSP is an interdisciplinary living-learning community that brings students together from around the world to engage in social justice education on a global level. We invite applications from students of all backgrounds and levels of intercultural experience and from any college or school at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.

More Info


SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

James A. Kelly Learning Lever Prize


Propose Now

The James A. Kelly Learning Lever Prize is a competition designed to challenge University of Michigan students to invent digital tools with the potential to significantly improve student learning. This prize encourages a culture of innovation in education, and rewards the creative, interdisciplinary work of University of Michigan students.

More Info


GINSBERG CENTER

Community Engagement Grants

Apply By Fri, Dec. 8

The Ginsberg Center provides multiple forms of financial resources for student groups and organizations to engage in positive change through social justice education, leadership development, and meaningful service experiences with the community. The Community Engagement Grant program allows us to deepen our partnerships with student organizations and support community-based initiatives. Community Engagement Grants are offered on a rolling basis until funds are depleted.

Apply Now


In the Impact Community:

 

Upswell

Nov. 15-17
Dallas, TX

Upswell Summit 2023, powered by Independent Sector, will advance our singular mission by offering thought leadership that wrestles with issues plaguing our nation, workshops and panels that will strengthen your institutional, personal, and professional development, as well as time to invest and care for the most important person in the work – you.  

Registration Information


 

John R. Lewis Case Competition

Application Due
Fri, Nov. 17 at 11:59 pm ET

All undergraduate and graduate students are invited to apply as teams for the free John Lewis Case Competition this month. The preliminary round consists of an industry-generic PowerPoint statement on intention. Semifinalists will be assigned to a corporate sponsor on December 11th and given a specific case prompt based on that sponsor’s racial justice/equality goals. The overall winning team will receive $20,000, with $7,000 for second place and $3,000 for third place.

More info


 

Volunteer for VITA and Help Others with Tax Returns

Training in November

VITA stands for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. Join a community of over 80 volunteers in working to complete federal and state tax returns for low to moderate income families in Washtenaw County. Volunteer to help clients save on costly tax preparation fees, and put over $1.4 million of refunds into the hands of those that need it most. No experience? No problem! United Way’s comprehensive training process will give you the skills and knowledge necessary to prepare basic tax returns.


More Info


 

MBark 2 Boulder

Jan. 3-6
Boulder, CO

Academic institutions are only now beginning to provide instruction in relevant disciplines such as authentic leadership and sustainability.  Meanwhile, natural foods companies have seldom recruited MBA students, so many of the best management practices, analytical tools, growth strategies, and latest research on organizational development are simply not present in the ranks of their leadership. MBArk was created to bridge that gap, bringing the “hearts” of natural foods together with the “smarts” of business education.

Apply Now

September 2023 Newsletter

B+I Showcase Will Highlight Impact Centers & Clubs Across Campus for All U-M Students

Thurs, Sept. 7 @ 11 am – 1 pm
Ross School of Business
Sixth Floor, Tauber Colloquium

Welcome new and returning students! We hope your summer was empowering and invigorating because we have a lot of opportunities coming up for you. As part of our mission to make students aware of impact opportunities across campus, we welcome students to our 6th annual Business+Impact Showcase at Ross. Students will have a chance to meet with over 30 organizations and map out their U-M impact journeys. The event will also feature a “Mission & Mocktails Area,” and other fun, engaging activities.

MORE INFO

 


Program Applications Open for +Impact Studio Founders and Fellows, Nonprofit Board Fellowships

Calling all current U-M students! Do you have a strong entrepreneurial spirit? Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration? A commitment to impact? If so, we want you! Come join our vibrant collaborative community and help take ideas from concept to prototype to scale!

The +Impact Studio Founders Program helps impact-driven creators and innovators bring impactful ideas to life that build a sustainable and just world for all! Using business knowledge, design tools, and research expertise, our experienced and interdisciplinary coaches and fellows roll up their sleeves and work alongside founders to accomplish great things.

Applebaum Impact Design Fellows are part of an interdisciplinary cohort working as co-creators alongside +Impact Studio Founders to prototype and advance studio concepts.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BOTH PROGRAMS

APPLY TO BE A FOUNDER

APPLY TO BE A FELLOW

Business+Impact’s Nonprofit Board Fellowship Program develops cross-sector leadership skills by placing graduate students as non-voting members on board in Southeast Michigan nonprofits.

The 2023-24 Student Application for the program is now available, along with student instructions, and is due Thurs, Sept. 14 at 11:59 pm.

You must attend an info session below in order to participate in the program for 2023-24:

BF Info Session
Tues. Sept 5 @ Noon – 1 pm
Blau Colloquium, Blau Hall (food provided
)

BF Info Session #3
Wed. Sept 6 @ 4-5 pm
Room 3240, Weill Hall (food provided)

If you are unable to attend due to an academic or religious conflict, please email us.

MORE INFO & APPLY


Podcast: Tom Sugrue on the Story of Detroit

In this episode of Social Impact Design for Business, Jerry Davis of Michigan Ross’ +Impact Studio interviews Tom Sugrue, Professor of Social and Cultural Analysis and History at NYU, and author of “Origins of the Urban Crisis: Race and Inequality in Postwar Detroit.”  In this episode, Tom dispels the myth that Detroit’s economic hardship and racial tensions began with the 1967 uprising and instead identifies factors at play since the 1920s, and looks ahead to a brighter future for Detroit.  

Listen to this Podcast

MBA Impact at Ross Happy Hour/Kickoff

Tues, Sept. 5 @ 4:30-6:30 pm
Casa Dominick’s
812 Monroe St., Ann Arbor

Business+Impact and Net Impact are excited to welcome all MBAs to a kickoff Happy Hour at Dominicks, celebrating the beginning of the academic year and renewing friendships while refreshing ourselves. New and returning MBAs interested in impact are invited to gather at this special event featuring sangria and pizza, co-sponsored by Business+Impact and Ross Net Impact.

Attendees will be limited.

RSVP TO ATTEND

 


MBA2 Gordon Impact Scholarship Application Due Soon

Application due:
Mon, Sept. 25 @ 11:59 pm

Are you an MBA2 committed to addressing complex social challenges? This year the Skip and Carrie Gordon Scholarship Fund will award three $7,500 scholarships to MBA2s who demonstrate a dedication to impact. Applications are open now, and winners will be announced in October.

Summer Abiad (MBA ’23), Connor Donnelly (MBA/MS ’23), Harshita Pilla (MBA/MURP ’23), and Joss Woodhead (MBA ’23) were each chosen to receive Gordon Scholarships in 2022-23.

APPLY HERE

 


Impact Events Where You Can Meet Us!

Business+Impact will be taking part in a number of tabling events during the next month where you can meet us and find out more about our programs and our mission:

Ross Events:

Image of Impact Gateway homepage.

A Searchable Platform for All Things Impact at Ross and Across Campus


The Business+Impact Gateway provides you with a single location for all things impact. Here you’ll find all of the activities, people and key partners working to use their learning to make a real impact in the world. 

IMPACT GATEWAY

Impact News and Notes

At the University:

 

IMPACT INVESTING GROUP

Impact Investing Group Donations


Donate Now!

The Impact Investing Group at Michigan Ross serves businesses that face inequitable financing. IIG’s Microfinance Fund provides microloans to entrepreneurs in Detroit and Ann Arbor. Now you can donate to this fund and impact SE Michigan.

More Info

 


SCHOOL OF INFORMATION

Get Volunteer Support for Your Team

Apply Now

Have an information-based project you’re having trouble prioritizing? Your organization can get the help you need from the University of Michigan School of Information (UMSI). Organizations and units on the U-M campus are invited to host a student team who will provide high impact deliverables on your project. Interested? 

Apply here

 


 

CCC

Community Case Competition Applications

Apply by Sun, Sept. 10

Community Case Competition provides pro bono management consulting services for local nonprofit organizations while also providing RSB and other University students the opportunity to further develop business skills learned in the classroom and the chance to give back to the local community.  Applications are open for their 10 week consulting projects. Students can check out #ccc-2023 and slack CCC if you have any questions!

Apply here

 


SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK

Social Work Events

Are You an Anti-Racist Practitioner? – Sept 8 @ 9 am

History to Present Day: Race and Housing in Ann Arbor – Sept 14 @ Noon

Global Approaches to Child Mistreatment Prevention – Sept 22 @ 9 am

Beyond Pronouns: Cisnormativity in Social Work Practice – Oct 12 @ Noon

We invite all UM students to attend events and meet our people at the School of Social Work. We’re excited for you to experience the thinking of the School of Social Work

Complete Events listing

 


FORD SCHOOL

Policy Talks @ Ford

 

Planning for Development Impact – Sept 11 @ 11:30 am

Developing a Measure to Assess Racial Equity-oriented Social and Emotional Learning Practices – Sept 14 @ Noon

The Injustice of Place Book Talk and Alumni Reception – Oct 24 @ 6 pm

The Ford School hosts a diverse array of timely, meaningful events that engage with students, community, and public policy leaders. During the coming month, the Ford School will host this wide-ranging and powerful series of talks on diversity, poverty, and more.

Complete Events List

 


CAMPUS SUSTAINABILITY

Earthfest

Thurs, Sept 21 @ 10 am – 2 pm (rain or shine)
The UM Diag

Earthfest celebrates sustainability initiatives across U-M and the surrounding communities while providing an inclusive platform to educate and engage the campus community on opportunities to support sustainability and environmental justice on campus and in our daily lives. Come learn about sustainability on campus and participate in fun engagement opportunities.

More Info
 
 


CAMPUS SUSTAINABILITY

Beware of Black Boxes: Identify Signs of an Ethical Collapse

Fri, Sept. 29 @ 2:30-4 pm

Theranos was the darling of Silicon Valley. The company boasted a revolutionary blood diagnostic and vision for the future of healthcare that many wanted to believe in. However, in a swift series of events, the company became one of the most highly reported business scandals in American history. Could this outcome have been prevented? Could it have been predicted? In this discussion, whistleblower Erika Cheung will discuss some of the timeless warning signs of an organizational ethical collapse. Additionally, we’ll discuss some of the challenges that may arise in one’s own journey in the pursuit of ethical decision-making. 

More Info
 


GINSBERG CENTER

Foundations of Community Engagement


Tues, Sept. 19 @ 4:30 pm
Fri, Sept. 22 @ Noon
Mon, Sept. 25 @ 6 pm
Fri, Sept. 29 @ Noon
Tues, Oct. 3 @ 4:30 pm
Online

 

The Ginsberg Center offers multiple workshops to support students and staff who are working with communities through courses, student organizations, or independently. Learning in Community (LinC) is an educational workshop and training series focused on supporting those interested in community engagement, social justice, democratic engagement, advocacy, activism, and philanthropy.

Register for Sessions

 


CENTER FOR THE EDUCATION OF WOMEN+

CEW+ Annual Advocacy Symposium

Wed, Oct. 4 @ 9 am – 1 pm
Michigan League

 

The CEW+ annually brings together staff, faculty, students, and community members to create change through introspection, dialogue, and action at our advocacy symposium. The goal is to give participants practical tools to better advocate for themselves and others. Attendees participate in workshops and roundtable discussions that highlight relevant U-M resources, offer professional development skill-building, and showcase the advocacy journeys of diverse speakers. 

More Info

 


In the Impact Community:

 

Detroit Month of Design


ALL SEPTEMBER

The 13th Annual Detroit Month of Design Festival is a citywide celebration of creativity that gathers designers and the greater community to celebrate Detroit’s role as a national and global design capital.  Check out 175+ creatives, 80+ events, and meet 50,000 attendees in various Detroit neighborhoods throughout the month.

More Info

 


 

It’s Up to Us Competition

APPLY NOW

The Up to Us Campus Competition is a nationwide leadership development and civic engagement initiative that mobilizes young people to build public awareness campaigns that educate their peers about the long-term national debt. The application is now live – apply today! (US-based student opportunity only.) There is a $10,000 grand prize, in-person and funded leadership training in Washington, DC.

Apply Now


ClimateCAP

Jamie Alexander Online event Fri, Sept. 15

Fellowship: Apply Starting Sun, Oct. 3

Summit Conference at Michigan Ross in Feb. 2024!

ClimateCAP’s signature program is an annual Summit which will be held February 9-10, 2024, at the Ross School of Business in Ann Arbor, MI.

The ClimateCAP Fellowship offers a select group of MBAs a transformational and immersive cohort-based experience that enables and empowers them to become the next generation of climate leaders and changemakers.  Fellowship applications open October 3rd.

More Info

 


 

Michigan Angel Summit


MON, SEPT 18 @ 9 AM – 4 PM
KENSINGTON HOTEL, ANN ARBOR

The sixth annual Michigan Angel Summit is the perfect gathering for individual investors to mingle with fellow financial adventurers from all corners of the state. Enjoy a day filled with illuminating talks, engaging discussions, and networking galore.

More Info

 


 

12th Symposium on Public Policy for Nonprofits

Fri, Sept. 22 @ 1-4 pm ET
Online

The Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA)Independent Sector, and Nonprofit Policy Forum invite you to attend the 12th Symposium on Public Policy for Nonprofits, which will focus on surfacing promising public policy recommendations to strengthen the nonprofit sector and philanthropy.


Conference Info


 

 

Wege Prize Competition

Apply by Oct. 8

Wege Prize is an annual competition that ignites game-changing solutions for the future by inspiring college/university students around the world to collaborate across institutional, disciplinary, and cultural boundaries to redesign the way economies work. Participants contend for $65,000 (USD) in total cash prizes, all while learning — and helping to show the world — what the future of problem solving looks like.


Application info


 

Social Enterprise World Forum

Oct. 11-12, 2023
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
OR Online

Our annual flagship event brings together thousands of social enterprise leaders, policymakers and purpose-led people with one goal: to raise awareness of social enterprise as an expanding global mechanism for social change. SEWF23 will be a milestone in Amsterdam’s journey to creating a well-being economy that prioritises people and the planet.

Buy Tickets

 


 

Michigan Pre-College & Youth Outreach Conference

Fri, Oct. 20 @ 8 am – 4:30 pm
Wayne State University
OR Online

We are planning a variety of presentation formats and workshops, along with some wonderful invited guests, including a free Thursday night networking dinner the evening before the conference.

Our Keynote Speaker will be Andre Ebron, the Senior Director for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the United Way for Southeastern Michigan. 

Register Here

 


 

SOCAP Global


OCT. 23-25
SAN FRANCISCO, CA

SOCAP convenes the most engaged and diverse impact investing community in the world. For more than 15 years, the SOCAP conference has been the flagship event and leading convener in the impact economy, gathering more than 100,000 people since our first event. This is the largest, action-oriented gathering where investors, entrepreneurs, and social impact leaders come together to accelerate progress against the world’s toughest challenges through market-based solutions.

More info

August 2023 Newsletter

 

Program Applications Open for +Impact Studio Founders and Fellows, Nonprofit Board Fellowships

Calling all current U-M students! Do you have a strong entrepreneurial spirit? Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration? A commitment to impact? If so, we want you! Come join our vibrant collaborative community and help take ideas from concept to prototype to scale!

The +Impact Studio Founders Program helps impact-driven creators and innovators bring impactful ideas to life that build a sustainable and just world for all! Using business knowledge, design tools, and research expertise, our experienced and interdisciplinary coaches and fellows roll up their sleeves and work alongside founders to accomplish great things.

Applebaum Impact Design Fellows are part of an interdisciplinary cohort working to support the +Impact Studio Founders Program & prototype studio concepts.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BOTH PROGRAMS

APPLY TO BE A FOUNDER

APPLY TO BE A FELLOW

Business+Impact’s Nonprofit Board Fellowship Program develops cross-sector leadership skills by placing graduate students as non-voting members on board in Southeast Michigan nonprofits.

The 2023-24 Student Application for the program is now available, along with student instructions, and is due Thurs, Sept. 14 at 11:59 pm.

You must attend an info session below in order to participate in the program for 2023-24:

BF Info Session #1
Thurs, Aug. 31 @ 6-7 pm
Zoom

BF Info Session #2
Tues. Sept 5 @ Noon – 1 pm
Blau Colloquium, Blau Hall (food provided
)

BF Info Session #3
Wed. Sept 6 @ 4-5 pm
Room 3240, Weill Hall (food provided)

If you are unable to attend due to an academic or religious conflict, please email us to schedule an alternate time.

MORE INFO & APPLY


 

B+I Showcase Will Highlight Impact Centers & Clubs Across Campus for All U-M Students

Thurs, Sept. 7 @ 11 am – 1 pm
Ross School of Business
Sixth Floor, Tauber Colloquium

Welcome new and returning students! We hope your summer was empowering and invigorating, because we have a lot of opportunities coming up for you. As part of our mission to make students aware of impact opportunities across campus, we welcome students to our 6th annual Business+Impact Showcase at Ross. Students will have a chance to meet with over 30 organizations and map out their U-M impact journeys. The event will also feature a “Mission & Mocktails Room,” and other fun, engaging activities.

MORE INFO


 

Impact Internship Stories from Around the World

This year, Business+Impact’s Summer Fund financially supported the summer impact internships and experiences of 44 U-M students.

Each summer, Business+Impact awards competitive grants for summer internships to MBAs and BBAs in the Ross School of Business as well as MPP students in the Ford School of Public Policy.  Funding comes from the Give-A-Day Fund, General Motors, the Gordon Impact Entrepreneurship Fund, and the Ford School of Public Policy.

We have captured the experience of several interns from around the world, across a variety of focus areas, in students across campus.

READ  INTERVIEWS

MBA Impact at Ross Happy Hour/Kickoff

Tues, Sept. 5 @ 4:30-6:30 pm
Casa Dominick’s
812 Monroe St., Ann Arbor

Business+Impact and Net Impact are excited to welcome all MBAs to a kickoff Happy Hour at Dominicks, celebrating the beginning of the academic year and renewing friendships while refreshing ourselves. New and returning MBAs interested in impact are invited to gather at this special event featuring sangria and pizza, co-sponsored by Business+Impact and Ross Net Impact.

Attendees will be limited.

RSVP TO ATTEND


 

Impact Tabling Events Where You Can Meet Us!

Business+Impact will be taking part in a number of tabling events during the next month where you can meet us and find out more about our programs and our mission:

  • FTMBA Orientation Meet Centers and Inst – Thurs, Aug 17 11:45 – 1:45 @ Ross Winter Garden

  • Incoming BBA Tabling Event – Fri, Aug 25 11-12:30 @ Ross Winter Garden

  • B+I & Net Impact Happy hour – Tues, Sept 5 4:30-6:30 @ Dominick’s

  • Taubman College Welcome Picnic – Wed, Sept 6, 6:30-8 @ The Taubman Patio

  • B+I Showcase – Thurs, Sept 7 11-1 @ Ross’ Tauber Colloquium

  • UMSI Cross-School Resource Fair – Tues, Sept 12 Noon-1:30 

  • Social Work Resource Fair – Wed, Sept 13 Noon-2pm @ SSW Basement

  • VC & Entrepreneurship Resource Fair – Fri, Sept 15 Noon-2 

  • Earthfest – Thurs, Sept 21 10am – 2 pm @ The Diag

Image of Impact Gateway homepage.

A Searchable Platform for All Things Impact at Ross and Across Campus


The Business+Impact Gateway provides you with a single location for all things impact. Here you’ll find all of the activities, people and key partners working to use their learning to make a real impact in the world. 

IMPACT GATEWAY

Impact News and Notes

At the University:

IMPACT INVESTING GROUP

Impact Investing Group Donations


Donate Now!

The Impact Investing Group at Michigan Ross serves businesses that face inequitable financing. IIG’s Microfinance Fund provides microloans to entrepreneurs in Detroit and Ann Arbor. Now you can donate to this fund and impact SE Michigan.

More Info


SCHOOL OF INFORMATION

Get Volunteer Support for Your Team

Apply Now

Have an information-based project you’re having trouble prioritizing? Your organization can get the help you need from the University of Michigan School of Information (UMSI). Organizations and units on the U-M campus are invited to host a student team who will provide high impact deliverables on your project. Interested? 

Apply here


C-SED

Senior Facilitator Needed

Apply by: Sun, Aug. 20

The Center for Socially Engaged Design (C-SED) is looking for a Senior Facilitator to lead C-SED’s mission to build a more socially engaged and collaborative research environment at the University of Michigan, College of Engineering. The Senior Facilitator will work with diverse teams to create engaging experiences that foster thoughtful conversations, innovative ideas, and clear paths for collaborative work.

More Info


PUBLIC HEALTH

Racial Equity in Washtenaw County and the Role of Reparations

Thurs, Aug. 31 @ Noon-1 pm
Zoom

As part of the Epidemiology Seminar Series with Alize Asberry Payne, there will be a discussion on reparations for African-Americans in light of racial equity challenges in Washtenaw County, Michigan.

Register here


SPECTRUM CENTER

Pride Outside: LGBTQ Welcome

Sun, Sept. 3 @ 2-4:30 pm
Angell Hall

A major part of Welcome to Michigan, Pride Outside is an annual LGBTQ+ centric welcome event providing a space for new and returning students to celebrate the beginning of fall semester with resource tables, lawn games, a drag show, shaved ice, t-shirt giveaways, and more. With partners from oSTEM, Michigan Engineering, and Central Student Government, this event is one of Spectrum Center’s largest and sets a positive, energetic, and community tone for the academic year.

More Info
 


GINSBERG CENTER

Foundations of Community Engagement


Thurs, Aug. 24 @ Noon-1:30 pm, or
Wed, Sept 13 @ 6-7:30 pm, or
Tues, Sept. 19 @ 4:30-6 pm
Online


The Ginsberg Center offers multiple workshops to support students and staff who are working with communities through courses, student organizations or independently. Learning in Community (LinC) is an educational workshop and training series focused on supporting those interested in community engagement, social justice, democratic engagement, advocacy, activism and philanthropy.

Register for Sessions




In the Impact Community:

Paragon One Nonprofit Consulting Remote Externship

Apply by Mon, Aug. 21

In this externship program starting Mon, Sept. 4, students will learn strategic consulting skills to analyze and evaluate challenges from nonprofit organizations using consulting frameworks, in an overall effort to help them solve their important problems. Selected individuals will dive into their strategic problems, such as development, impact assessment, process improvements, talent engagement, communication, and strategic positioning.

Application info


Champions for Change


Apply by Tues, Aug. 22

In vibrant communities, all people are welcomed, included, valued and nurtured. Together, we can find new ways to disrupt the many forms of racism. Throughout Champions for Change, we nurture and support Leaders of Color and White Leaders in their efforts for social change. We cultivate dialogic skills, engage in critical self-reflection, and empower each other to leverage our influence to create racially equitable communities.

Application info


Consulting with Purpose: Consultants and Professionals Serving Nonprofits

Tues, Aug. 22 @ Noon-1:30 pm
Tues, Sept. 26 @ Noon-1:30 pm
Online

Join Co.act Detroit and Michigan Community Resources for an enriching series for consultants and professionals who share a deep commitment to helping nonprofits achieve their missions. Through collaboration, peer-to-peer networking, and knowledge sharing, we’re making space for a community of practice made up of like-minded professionals passionate about serving nonprofits.

Register Here


Arts and Culture Racial Equity Grant

Apply by Mon, Aug. 28 @ 5 pm

The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation will be accepting grant applications for the Arts and Culture Grant Program.  To apply you must attend the final Information Session, Mon, Aug. 21 @ 2 pm via Zoom.

Application Info


NEW Fundraiser: African American Foodways Dinner with Adrian Miller

Tues, Sept. 12 @ 7 pm
Zingerman’s Roadhouse
$90 with options for additional donations

This dinner will be raising funds in support of Ann Arbor’s NEW Center (Nonprofit Enterprise at Work), along with their loving and revolutionary work. Zingerman’s is thrilled to be able to bring back one of its most beloved special events, the African American Foodways dinner, in celebration of its 20th anniversary. It’s an honor to welcome back Adrian Miller — food writer, James Beard Award winner, attorney, and certified barbecue judge.

More info


 

Wege Prize Competition

Applications Open
Aug. 7 – Oct. 8

Wege Prize is an annual competition that ignites game-changing solutions for the future by inspiring college/university students around the world to collaborate across institutional, disciplinary, and cultural boundaries to redesign the way economies work. Participants contend for $65,000 (USD) in total cash prizes, all while learning — and helping to show the world — what the future of problem solving looks like.


Application info

Summer 2023 Newsletter

Nonprofit Leaders: Apply Now for Grad Student Board Fellows Program

Flexible Application Due Date: Fri, July 14

Are you a nonprofit organization in Southeast Michigan that is curious about the Board Fellowship program? Graduate student Fellows serve as non-voting board members during the academic year and complete a strategic project that can provide valuable capacity in areas such as strategic plan implementation, sustainability strategies, business plans, and dashboards. Using the virtual information session and information sheet, get an overview for prospective organizations interested in participating during the 2023-24 academic year. Then, apply for this program right away.

APPLY HERE

 


FROM THE +IMPACT STUDIO:

What We All Can Learn from Detroit Small Business Owners

The +Impact Studio is a proud partner of Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project (DNEP) +Impact Studio for Local Business. This summer, undergraduate students are developing pivotal solutions for Detroit businesses, and the program has been meeting in the +Impact Studio. In this post, Ross BBA Nikki Ambas reports on what she’s learned so far about entrepreneurs’ insights, class concepts, and working comfortably with ambiguity.

READ THIS POST


Team Human Podcast on Denaturalizing Power & Collaborative Capitalism

This episode of the Team Human Podcast features Marina Gorbis, Executive Director of the Institute for the Future; and Jerry Davis, Gilbert and Ruth Whitaker Professor of Business Administration and B+I Faculty Director. Together, they discuss how to change the register from industrial values to collaborative commerce, and how denaturalizing power reveals the constructed landscape.

LISTEN HERE


Ross Open Road a Success in 2023!

This May, three teams (Team “Running on Pancakes”, Team “Soup-a-Stars” and Team “Tetris”) of Michigan Ross MBAs spent the month consulting for social entrepreneurs across the United States about the business challenges they face. These intrepid travelers of Open Road at Ross — powered by Ford — were focused on everything from composting to tea shops. Business+Impact is proud to partner on this program, funded by the Ford Motor Company Fund. Read all about their journeys and link to photos of the stops along the way.

SEE THEIR STORIES

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE SPOTLIGHT

Detroit 75 Kitchen

Ahmad Nassar was on his way to medical school like many other children of immigrants but his entrepreneurial spirit and devotion to being part of the ongoing revitalization of Detroit compelled him to take a sharp turn in his career.

He decided to earn degrees from multiple universities including an MBA from Ross School of Business before he and his brother started out, and nobody gave them any chance of success. Today, with Mike in the kitchen and Ahmad managing the creative direction and growth strategy, the brothers are well on their way to building the most iconic hospitality brand to ever come out of Detroit.

READ MORE

Where are UM Interns Making an Impact?

This year, Business+Impact’s Summer Fund is financially supporting the summer impact internships of 28 University of Michigan students, and overall we are supporting 44 U-M students in several types of summer experiences.  This funding went to MBAs in the form of the Give-A-Day Fund.  Other summer funding came through General Motors, the Gordon Impact Entrepreneurship Fund, Open Road at Ross (funded by the Ford Motor Foundation), and the Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project +Impact Studio for Local Business. 

Read more


Find Fall ’23 Impact Courses in the Impact Gateway

The B+I Impact Gateway has a current and accurate listing, not only of Fall ’23 impact courses across the University of Michigan, but highlights from the Winter semester, to give you an idea of what to expect then!  Specialty listings for graduate students and undergrads, and sub-listings of Michigan Ross offerings make this resource valuable to you whether you’re a current or prospective student. Further information on impact degrees & concentrations as well as online course offerings make this resource invaluable.  Learn about all of the impact courses and make your plans now!

See the Impact Gateway Courses

Impact News and Notes

Paul Draus named director of U-M’s Detroit Center

The landmark trial that could determine who pays to rid America’s drinking water of PFAS – featuring Sara Hughes

U-M Health’s food-composting benefits spread across area

U-M expert: Change won’t happen overnight to improve race relations – featuring Jared Wadley

Murals share thoughts of residents in state’s most polluted zip code

Environmental activist returns to Detroit to rally against injustices

The State of Black Detroit is Key to Detroit’s Economy

135 Jefferson corridor small businesses in Detroit are getting tech help in unique program – DNEP

How corporations use greenwashing to convince you they are battling climate change – featuring Tom Lyon

SEAS alumna shares sustainability practices with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
Catalysts for racial justice

How to Be an Ally to Colleagues After Violence Against Their Community

REPORT: Collective Remembrance and Detroiters’ Views Toward Racial Inequity

New poverty research could bring more clarity to charter school comparisons – featuring Jennifer Erb-Downward

U-M’s renewable energy zoning initiative expands to six states

How Unnecessary Paper Packaging Creates the Illusion of Sustainability – featuring Aradhna Krishna

LSA senior sees intersection of business, climate change as key

Taubman grad to study Mexico City sustainability

The list of things to warn Black children about keeps getting longer – featuring Alford Young Jr.

Innovation fund aids campus sustainability projects

 

Image of Impact Gateway homepage.

A Searchable Platform for All Things Impact at Ross and Across Campus


The Business+Impact Gateway provides you with a single location for all things impact. Here you’ll find all of the activities, people and key partners working to use their learning to make a real impact in the world. 

IMPACT GATEWAY

At the University:

SCHOOL OF INFORMATION

Host a Student Project

Register Now!

Organizations from all industries and sectors are invited to propose information-based projects for students to work on through capstone projects, client-based courses, and programs. Most courses and programs occur during the academic school year, September through December or January through April. 

Register your Project Idea
 


PLANET BLUE

Planet Blue Student Leaders

Apply Now!

Planet Blue Student Leaders (PBSLs) work part-time in Student Life as peer educators to promote sustainable living behaviors. These positions will start remotely in mid-August and begin with in-person activities in Ann Arbor the week of August 28. To be considered for this position, candidates must be able to attend weekly team meetings in-person on Fridays 11am-1pm in West Quadrangle for the full academic year. Compensation starts at $15 per hour.

More Info


FORD SCHOOL

Reimagining Justice: A Conversation on Police Brutality with Jessica Jaglois and Rochelle Riley

Fri, June 23 @ 6:30 pm
State Theatre
233 S. State St., Ann Arbor

The Ford School is a proud supporter of this important discussion hosted by the Michigan Theater on the complicated issue of race and policing in the United States, featuring New York Times Contributor Jessica Jaglois, and Director of Arts and Culture for the City of Detroit, Rochelle Riley. Free and open to the public,

Reservations Recommended


CENTER FOR RACIAL JUSTICE

Racial Justice Fellows

Apply by
Fri, June 30

The Center for Racial Justice invites you to submit a letter of interest to join our annual cohort of Visiting Fellows for the 2023-24 academic year. The Visiting Fellows Program, the signature initiative of the Center for Racial Justice, represents a unique opportunity to work collaboratively with a diverse array of policy thinkers to advance racial justice. Fellows receive a funded 9-month non-residential fellowship with an annual stipend of $50,000, as well as $10,000 in project and travel expenses and graduate assistants.

More Info


UM DETROIT CENTER

Concert of Colors

July 21-23
DIA Museum South Lawn

Join us for the 31st Annual Concert of Colors, hosted by the Detroit Institute of Arts in Midtown Detroit. Bring the entire family to enjoy the live music performances from the various cultures that thrive in Metro Detroit and it’s free admission.  Visit our Wolverine Outdoor Stage on the DIA South Lawn, from July 21-23, and join our live stream with the singer-songwriter from Detroit, Isis Damil, as our hostess. Enjoy music and all of the flavors that Detroit brings.

More Info
 


In the Impact Community:

 

Upswell Pop-Up: Centering Equality in Systems Change

Tues, June 20 @ 1-4:30 pm ET
Online


The June Pop-Up will focus on how we as changemakers can collaborate and mobilize through systems change, advocacy, movement building, bridging and storytelling to create real lasting change. In addition to a Main Stage conversation and workshops, we’ll close out the Pop-Up by getting your feedback in the Upswell Exchange. 

Register Here



Centering Justice Unplugged!

Fri, June 23 @10 am – 2 pm
Ypsilanti Freighthouse


For the first time since launching amid the height of Covid-19, Centering Justice is going LIVE. Centering Justice has always had a tradition of being a space for revolutionary thinkers, dreamers, and creators. At this Unplugged event, speakers and participants will gather together to connect ideas with practices, art with life, and fun with fellowship.  Centering Justice is a BIPOC-centered gathering focusing on racial equity issues, their complexities, and ways to engage in joyful resistance.

Register Here


Ele’s Place Ann Arbor Healing Hearts Family 5K

Sat, June 24 @ 9 am
Thomas Reuters
6300 Interfirst Dr., Ann Arbor

Raise awareness of and support for grieving children, teens and their families who are grieving in Ann Arbor, and the surrounding southeast Michigan area. All are invited to participate in this family-friendly event to honor, celebrate and remember a special person who has died. This event is an opportunity to put “one foot in front of the other” to help fund our peer grief support programs and ensure they remain free to all who are in need of our services.

Register Here


Public Allies

Apply Now

Public Allies Metro Detroit is a program of the U of M-Dearborn, and a proud member of the AmeriCorps national service network. The program is made possible through funding of the Corporation for National and the Community Service and Michigan Community Service Commission. Apply now for fall opportunities.

Application Info


D-Prize Startup Grants

Final Deadline: Sun, June 25 @ 11:59 pm PT

Can you design a new business or NGO that delivers a proven poverty intervention at scale? Submit your design for a new organization that solves one of our Distribution Challenges below. We will award the most promising teams with up to $20,000 USD to launch their new organization wherever extreme poverty exists. Subject areas include Health, Water, Education, Agriculture, Livelihoods, and Public Services.

More Info

April 2023 Newsletter

Board Fellowship Info Sessions for Nonprofits

Tues, May 2 @ Noon
Ross School of Business,
B5570 Blau Hall

Wed, May 3 @ Noon
Zoom

Thurs, May 4 @ Noon
Dearborn Room
UM Detroit Center

Are you a nonprofit organization in Southeast Michigan that is curious about the Board Fellowship program? Graduate student Fellows serve as non-voting board members during the academic year and complete a strategic project that can provide valuable capacity in areas such as strategic plan implementation, sustainability strategies, business plans, and dashboards. These sessions provide an overview for prospective organizations interested in participating during the 2023-24 academic year. Learn about program benefits, structure, and application process.

REGISTER HERE


FROM THE +IMPACT STUDIO:

Pop Up Docs in Detroit

Latest News from the +Impact Studio

Not surprisingly, the +Impact Studio is always generating a buzz and ideas. Below are some of the latest posts from the +Impact Studio:


+Impact Studio Course concludes with Demo Day, Guests

As we reach the end of the academic year, our +Impact Studio class held a Demo Day featuring prototypes from student teams to address how urban business can adopt, promote, and benefit from the green energy transition. See the students’ How-To Guides from earlier this semester at GreenBizTransition.com. See photos from the class’s entire journey here.

Read the Article


Free Webinar on Green Energy Funding for Small Businesses

Tues, May 18 @ Noon ET
Online


The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 includes $500 billion in new spending and tax breaks targeted toward climate change, clean energy, training and workforce development, the development of clean infrastructure, and more. Take part in a free lunchtime virtual event where a panel of four experts including Jerry Davis will help you understand what opportunities are available to help you build your business and create generational wealth.

Register Here


Jerry Davis and Andy Hoffman Release a Short Case about Fossil Fuel Dilemmas in The Financial Times

In 2020, the British energy group BP pledged to decarbonise its portfolio, cutting oil and gas production by 40% from 2019 levels by 2030 and channelling billions of dollars into wind and solar projects. Then, in February 2023, the company stunned observers by retreating from these lofty goals — promising shareholders it would invest heavily into oil and gas projects and recalibrating its oil and gas reduction goal from 40% to 25% by the end of the decade.

Read the Case


We’re Hiring Two Student Employees for Fall 2023

Business+Impact is hiring two students to start in Fall 2023!

One position is the Give-A-Day Fund Campaign Director. The Campaign Director serves as the student leader of GADF. This position will collaborate with Ross staff, promote the GADF to fellow MBA students, and lead all communications with peer donors. This role pays $20/hr and reports to Haley Phillips, Student Program Manager for Business+Impact. — Apply here

The other position is a Web Designer for the Impact Gateway. This WordPress-skilled student will manage listings for events, courses, co-curriculars and volunteer opportunities listings on the Impact Gateway throughout the academic year.  This role pays $15/hr and reports to Glenn Bugala, Marketing Manager for Business+Impact. — Apply here

 

Ross Event Highlights:


(Ross) Michigan Fintech Conference

Thurs, Mar. 9 @ 5-8:30 pm
Robertson Auditorium


(Weiser Center) Albert Berriz

Wed, Mar. 15 @ 3-4:30 pm
Blau Colloquium

Image of Impact Gateway homepage.

A Searchable Platform for All Things Impact at Ross and Across Campus


The Business+Impact Gateway provides you with a single location for all things impact. Here you’ll find all of the activities, people and key partners working to use their learning to make a real impact in the world. 

IMPACT GATEWAY

Summer Impact Internship Funding Application

Apply today!

Each summer, Business+Impact awards competitive grants for summer internships to MBAs and BBAs in the Ross School of Business as well as MPP students in the Ford School of Public Policy.
 
The application for these monetary awards is open and will be considered on a rolling basis until today, April 18th at midnight. Award decisions will be based on the level of need (taking into account other funding being received), consideration of the position, the organization’s impact, and the quality of the application.

Apply today!


Congratulations all 2023 graduates!

Ross Commencement – April 28

We at Business+Impact have come to know many students at Ross and across campus through our programs and partnerships. We will miss all of you graduating students, but we’re excited to see the impact you make in your careers, and we wish you all the best. Keep in touch with B+I by joining our LinkedIn group, and we hope to partner with you sometime in the future.


 

B+I Collaborates with Nonprofit Leadership Alliance to Present Webinar on Student-Nonprofit Partnerships

Tues, Apr. 25 @ 1 pm ET
Online

Join Annaliese Fowler and Haley Phillips of B+I for a webinar on leveraging the power of nonprofit-higher education-student collaborations. Discover what each group can offer, and how these strengths can meet each other’s needs. We will focus on how higher education  can support nonprofits, and how this greatly benefits students with an interest in social impact. This symbiotic relationship will be exemplified in this session through B+I’s own Nonprofit Board Fellowship Program.

REGISTER FOR EVENT


Student Loan Repayment Program for Full-Time MBA Alums in Social Impact Careers

Through the Impact Advantage Program, alumni of the Michigan Ross Full-Time MBA Program (2021 grads and after) who pursue a career in the public or nonprofit sectors can apply for student loan repayment assistance. For those graduates accepted into the program, Impact Advantage will cover a portion of their Ross-related loan obligations — up to $7,500 per year for five years — while they are employed full-time at a social impact organization.

Applications for this program will be accepted in October 2023, but all of you upcoming graduates should save the date!

More info

Impact News and Notes

Why Poverty Persists in America – featuring Jerry Davis

Michigan Ross Business+Impact Team Empowers Students to be Architects of an Equitable and Sustainable Future – featuring Jerry Davis and Cat Johnson

Product Equity Trends in Big Tech – featuring Ross B+T

University outlines new commitments for helping Detroit

Opinion: Don’t expect schools to educate children on Black history – featuring Kevin Cockley

U-M joins with state to recruit talent for EV, mobility jobs

Reshaping business school with “management as a calling” – featuring Andy Hoffman

DEI efforts intersect with U-M’s past, present, future

Panel offers multidisciplinary perspectives on climate crisis

Wege lecturer Mary Robinson ties climate crisis to injustice

Poverty Solutions marks impact of action-based research in 2022

U-M features creative works of prisoners across Michigan

Gender Apartheid Against Women And Girls In Afghanistan – featuring Kamina Bennoune

Repeal of Michigan’s Right to Work law — what impact does it actually have on workers? – featuring Roland Zullo

Francis Medal recipient says nations must learn from pandemic

Bold Challenges awards planning grants to three research teams

How environmental disasters affect ecosystems: Ohio train derailment could affect local ecosystem for years, experts say – featuring Allen Burton

Global race to boost electric vehicle range in cold weather – featuring Neil Dasgupta

U-M Center for Social Solutions’ Earl Lewis to receive National Humanities Medal

SNAP cuts leave Michigan families, food banks struggling – featuring Luke Shaefer

Wastewater dashboard expands monitoring in five communities

The Secret Behind Japan’s Delicious Strawberries—Kerosene – featuring Shelie Miller

Bigger flowers, greater rewards: Plants adapt to climate disruptions to lure pollinators

U-M outlines new commitments to Detroit

University of Michigan Faculty Members Receive President’s Awards for Public Engagement

Christine Burkette, Detroit’s new digital equity director, aims to connect 90% of residents to the internet – featuring Cyrus Peñarroyo

Report: Detroiters’ views on reparations linked to perception of racial inequity – featuring Jasmine Simington and Erykah Benson

U-M earns Gold rating for climate, sustainability work

Fellowship helps K-12 educators teach students the importance of sustainability

In Memphis, hopes and challenges of Black middle class collide – featuring Karyn Lacy

At the University:

GINSBERG CENTER

Ginsberg Center Service Cords


Apply now!

All graduating students!  The purpose of these cords is to recognize students at graduation that have — through direct service, activism and advocacy, or other forms of civic engagement — helped address or make positive change around a specific social issue in partnership with economically or socially marginalized communities beyond campus.

More Info
 


CEW+

Career Connections: Imposter Syndrome


Wed, Apr. 19 @ 2-4 pm
330 E. Liberty St. Ann Arbor


This informal event strives to provide community and engagement for students, professionals, job seekers, or anyone looking for career support. The goal is to create a casual, welcoming environment for people to find resources, guidance, and fellowship with people from all stages in their careers. After an initial presentation, the event will be open-house style and participants may come and go as their schedule allows.

Register here


ENGAGED MICHIGAN

Engaged Detroit Proposals Requested


Submit by Fri, Apr. 28

The Engage Detroit Workshops grant program supports small groups of U-M faculty and staff members with a faculty lead in organizing a workshop, speaker series, or similar event centered on a topic relevant to Detroit communities. The Vice Provost for Engaged Learning (VPEL) will provide financial support for up to four workshops or seminar series in the amount of up to $15,000 per awarded workshop or speaker series proposal.

More Info


CEW+

CEW+ Scholarships

Apply by Wed, May 3

The CEW+ Scholarship Program, which today serves women and underserved students, was established in 1970 to honor the academic performance and potential of women whose education has been interrupted and to commemorate the one-hundredth anniversary of the admission of women to the University of Michigan.  With support from our generous donors, CEW+ was able to expand the program in 2008 to include additional scholarships for students of all genders. Please check eligibility.

More Info


UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN RESEARCH

Anti-Racism Grants


Apply by Thurs, June 1

The OVPR Anti-Racism Grants aim to catalyze innovative research and scholarship efforts that will advance knowledge and understanding around complex societal racial inequalities that can inform actions to achieve equity and justice.  For each program cycle, OVPR will provide funding for up to seven proposals – five at level 1 up to $50K and two at level 2 up to $100K.

More Info


PLANET BLUE

Planet Blue Student Leaders


Apply Now!

Planet Blue Student Leaders (PBSLs) work part-time in Student Life as peer educators to promote sustainable living behaviors. These positions will start remotely in mid-August and begin with in-person activities in Ann Arbor the week of August 28. To be considered for this position, candidates must be able to attend weekly team meetings in-person on Fridays 11am-1pm in West Quadrangle for the full academic year. Compensation starts at $15 per hour.

More Info


In the Impact Community:

Centering Justice


Wed, Apr. 19 @ Noon-1:30 pm ET
Online


Centering Justice (CJ) is a virtual space to find and share inspiration for racial justice and liberation. Here, we celebrate people, stories, and ideas to spur community-centered action. We uplift BIPOC leaders who are already dreaming, healing, reflecting, and moving us forward. We address the entangled social justice issues of race, gender, and class. And we offer calls to action that turn us towards systemic change, together.

Register Here


Public Allies

Apply Now

Public Allies Metro Detroit is a program of the U of M-Dearborn, and a proud member of the AmeriCorps national service network. The program is made possible through funding of the Corporation for National and the Community Service and Michigan Community Service Commission. Apply now for fall opportunities.

Application Info


Sustainable Cities Impact Investing Challenge


Apply Now!

Net Impact’s 2023 Sustainable Cities Impact Investing Challenge asks teams to build and submit an impact investing portfolio aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal  (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities. Developing cities with affordable housing, reliable public transportation, and resilient infrastructure is key to building a more just and sustainable world. Impact investing creates an opportunity for investing to provide both financial and impact returns. 

More Info


D-Prize Startup Grants


Early Deadline: Sun, May 14 @ 11:59 pm PT
Regular Deadline: Sun, June 4 @ 11:59 pm PT

Picture of dandelion with spores blowing and the word "D-Prize"Can you design a new business or NGO that delivers a proven poverty intervention at scale? Submit your design for a new organization that solves one of our Distribution Challenges below. We will award the most promising teams with up to $20,000 USD to launch their new organization wherever extreme poverty exists. Subject areas include Health, Water, Education, Agriculture, Livelihoods, and Public Services.

More Info


Climate Leadership Conference


May 10-12, 2023
Sheraton Grand, Los Angeles

Registration is now open for the 2023 Climate Leadership Conference.  This is a solutions-oriented program that allows participants to connect and collaborate with sustainability professionals across sectors. Attendees will build business connections, gain new insights and collaborate with national leaders.

More Info

March 2023 Newsletter

Public Forum on Nonprofit Boards and Communities: Mar. 15


“Community Connections: Forging Equitable Relationships Between Nonprofit Boards and the Communities They Serve”
Wed, Mar 15 @ 5:30-7:30 pm
Blau Hall, B0560


As nonprofit organizations grow, it is easy for board members to become increasingly disconnected from the community members they serve. What actions can boards take to be sure community voices are included, without tokenizing individual community members? How are boards rethinking organizational structures to foster equity and inclusion? We invite the public to join Board Fellowship students and staff for this interactive panel discussion. Panelists include Ken Bluhm of Michigan United Cerebral Palsy, Adam Grant of A Brighter Way, Sarah Hennessy of RE!nstitute, and Loren Townes Jr. of Growing Hope.

Dinner will be served. Please RSVP through Eventbrite.

REGISTER HERE


FROM THE +IMPACT STUDIO:

New +Impact Studio Applebaum Impact Design Fellows Bring Expert Knowledge and Passion to Ventures

The +Impact Studio made incredible strides in 2022. It revived its physical community space and Impact Design Lab following COVID-19, launched the largest and most diverse cohort of founders & Applebaum Impact Design Fellows to date, and propelled financial equity & climate action ventures to success. The Studio continues to surpass all expectation. This momentum continued into 2023 as the +Impact Studio added three new faces to a few of their all-star ventures. After a rigorous application process, the new Fellows selected include Ogochukwu Okoye for finding joi, Rebekah Lim for Grow Together (G2G), and Jonathan Amos for Affirmative. (previously named Lifeboat).

READ THE POST

Studio Alum in the News: Black Queer Heroes in Comic Books and the Classroom

Exciting news for +Impact Studio alum Nathan Alston and his venture, Plucky Comics! Alston was a recent NPR guest, talking with Stateside’s April Baer about his venture’s mission, impact, and latest release – listen here – and featured in the UM news. Formed by Michigan Ross alums Nathan Alston and Daniella Gennaro, Plucky Comics is an activist-led company dedicated to protecting and reimagining Black queer history and finding ways to bring these important, undertold stories into the classroom. Alston & Gennaro were selected as co-Founders in the +Impact Studio’s Founders program, working with the studio team of coaches for over a year.

Studio Venture finding joi Formally Launches!

Congratulations to +Impact Studio founder, Joi James on launching finding joi, LLC! Over the past year, Joi has been working with other fellows, mentors, and investors within the +Impact Studio to build this social venture aimed at creating opportunities for Black womxn and femme-identifying folks to experience joy in their daily lives amidst personal, professional, and academic responsibilities as well as educating employers on how to create psychologically and physically safe spaces. finding joi will be celebrating its launch with a private event showcasing Baddie Brooks, a classically trained musician, writer, and performer based in Detroit. 

Get engaged with finding joi by signing up for their newsletter at findmyjoi.com and check out their founder testimonial here!


Board Fellows Experiences

The 2022-23 Board Fellowship Program will come to its conclusion in April. Students from RossFord, School of Information, School for the Environment and Sustainability, and other programs developed project management and executive skills as board members of nonprofit organizations in Southeast Michigan. In addition to attending all board meetings and serving on a board committee, they worked on a board-level project tackling a complex organizational challenge.

In this article, we check in with five students to get a glimpse into their work and find out what they’ve learned so far!

READ THE ARTICLE

Support our Social Impact Students on Giving BlueDay

Give on:
Wed, Mar. 15

We invite you to give directly to B+I’s Social Impact Internship Fund (313726) on Giving BlueDay March 15! You’ll enable Michigan Ross talent to make an impact in the community by reducing financial barriers to complete a social impact internship. Your gift directly supports summer stipends for undergraduate and  graduate students.

Plan to Donate Here


Summer Impact Internship Funding Application

Apply now!

Each summer, Business+Impact awards competitive grants for summer internships to MBAs and BBA juniors in the Ross School of Business as well as MPP students in the Ford School of Public Policy.
 
The application for these monetary awards has just opened and will be considered on a rolling basis until April 18th. Award decisions will be based on the level of need (taking into account other funding being received), consideration of the position, the organization’s impact, and the quality of the application.

Apply now!

ALSO: Our friends at the School of Social Work offer Social Justice Internship Funding through their Community Action Social Change Center. The CASC Summer Social Justice Internship Fund provides up to $2000 (depending on the length of the summer internship) for students seeking an internship, field, or volunteer opportunities in community settings with a social justice emphasis. Apply by March 30th.

Apply now!

Ross Event Highlights:


(Ross) Michigan Fintech Conference

Thurs, Mar. 9 @ 5-8:30 pm
Robertson Auditorium


(CPO) The War for Kindness

Thurs, Mar. 23 @ 2-3 pm
Online


(Weiser Center) Albert Berriz

Wed, Mar. 15 @ 3-4:30 pm
Blau Colloquium


(CPO) Accelerate Your Purpose

Thurs, Apr. 6 @ 4-5:30 pm
at Ross

Image of Impact Gateway homepage.

A Searchable Platform for All Things Impact at Ross and Across Campus


The Business+Impact Gateway provides you with a single location for all things impact. Here you’ll find all of the activities, people and key partners working to use their learning to make a real impact in the world. 

IMPACT GATEWAY

SPOTLIGHT:

Neesha Modi (MBA/MS ’12)

Neesha Modi is the Director of Programs and Social Investment Operations at the Kresge Foundation, a Detroit-based philanthropic organization dedicated to promoting human progress.Through her guidance as the connective tissue between the foundation’s operations and the mission, Ms. Modi forwards Kresge’s goals of building and strengthening pathways to opportunity for low-income people in America’s cities, and seeking to dismantle structural and systemic barriers to equality and justice. We connected with her via video link to learn about her time at Michigan Ross, her impact journey and learnings along the way.

READ MORE

At the University:

UM SCHOOL OF INFORMATION

SDG Action & Awareness Week


Mar. 6 – 10
UMSI Engagement Center


The UMSI Engaged Learning Office (ELO) is hosting and cross-promoting a series of events for the University Global Coalition Sustainable Development Goals Action and Awareness Week from Monday, March 6 to Friday, March 10. These events will explore different ways the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are being addressed in an information context.

More Info


LSA

The Egalitarian Metropolis


Symposium Dates
Mar. 7-8 & Mar. 16-18
@ Taubman College, Rackham Auditorium, and UM Detroit Center


The Great Black Migration to Detroit occurred at the height of the city’s industrial dominance, and yet the result was a deeply divided metropolis where almost all the benefits of subsequent industrial restructuring flowed to white suburbanites and almost all the costs were borne by Black city residents. The culmination of the Michigan-Mellon Project on the Egalitarian Metropolis, this symposium brings together University of Michigan researchers and Detroit community leaders who are working daily to make the city’s recovery equitable and inclusive.

More Info

 


HOUSING SOLUTIONS FOR HEALTH EQUITY

Breaking the Cycle


​”Creating Opportunities to Succeed for Families Experiencing Homelessness in Detroit”
Fri, Mar. 10 @ Noon – 1 pm
Virtual


This event will focus on describing common elements of family trajectories into family homelessness and housing instability, including Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), intergenerational trauma and poverty, and institutional and structural barriers to recovery from housing instability. Partners from COTS will share their current innovative approaches to supporting families to break the cycle of instability.

Learn more


SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

James A. Kelly Learning Levers Prize


Proposals Due
Sun, Mar. 12, 2023


Bring your passion and make an impact on pre-K–12 Education. The James A. Kelly Learning Levers Prize is a student pitch competition that supports scalable, research-based ideas that promote learning in pre-K–12 education. All U-M undergraduate and graduate students from the Ann Arbor, Dearborn, or Flint campuses can enter as individuals or teams.

Learn more


CENTER FOR SUSTAINABLE SYSTEMS

Wege Lecture: Mary Robinson


“Climate Justice: Hope, Resilience & the Fight for a Sustainable Future”
Mon, Mar. 13 @ 6 pm
Rackham Auditorium

Join Robinson as she shares her passion for climate justice, human dignity, gender equality and women’s participation in peace-building. She will highlight the urgent need for climate change action and how local, community-based action can grow into a global effort to build a sustainable future.

More Info


U-M DEI

Viral Justice: How We Grow the World We Want


Tues, Mar. 14 @ Noon
Rogel Ballroom, Michigan Union


In collaboration with partners across U-M, the SPH DEI Office is bringing Dr. Ruha Benjamin to campus for a talk and community conversation on March 14, 2023. Trained as a sociologist, Dr. Benjamin’s research sits at the intersection of science, technology, and medicine and resonates deeply with the field of Public Health. Dr. Benjamin will deliver a lecture on her new book, Viral Justice: How We Grow the World We Want.  Dr. Benjamin will deliver a lecture and then participate in a conversation/Q&A facilitated by Leseliey Welch.

More Info


CENTER FOR RACIAL JUSTICE

Twink Frey Visiting Social Activist Program


Application Due
Wed, Mar. 15


Each year the Twink Frey Visiting Social Activist (TFVSA) Program brings to CEW+ a social justice activist whose work affects women and recognizes gender equity issues.   If selected, the applicant is invited to reside near campus for up to one month or make intermittent visits to Ann Arbor and work remotely. The 2024 residency will take place during the winter semester with a presentation of their project the following fall semester at the CEW+ Annual Advocacy Symposium.

More Info


NET IMPACT AT ROSS

Community Development: Finance’s Role in Sustainable Economic Progress


Wed, Mar. 15 @ 7-8 pm
Ross R0320


Net Impact @ Ross presents its annual social impact symposium for all members of this Ross club and their friends!

Register here


INNOVATION IN ACTION

10th Annual Innovation in Action Final Showcase


Fri, Mar. 17 @ 4 pm
Tauber Colloquium, Michigan Ross


Student teams from across the University of Michigan worked for several months to develop solutions to a real-world challenge they are passionate about. Join us to learn more about these incredible teams and hear the announcement of the winners! This program is cosponsored by Business+Impact.

More Info


UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

On-Campus Paid Fellowship & Internship Opportunities


What follows is a list of paid fellowships and internships offered through the University of Michigan this coming summer.

DNEP +Impact Studio for Local Business Internship
(Extended!) Apply by Fri, Mar. 10


Poverty Solutions Internship
Apply by Wed, Mar 15


UM Campus Farm Internships
Apply by Wed, Mar. 15


Ginsberg Graduate Consultant Program
Apply by Fri, Mar. 31


Engelhardt Social Justice Fellowship
Apply by Thurs, Aug. 31


SCHOOL OF ANTHROPOLOGY

The Roy A. Rappaport Lectures
with Michael Lempert


“From Small Talk to Microagression: A History of Scale”
Fri, Mar. 17 @ 3-5 pm
Rackham Assembly Hall


Since the mid-twentieth century, US social scientists studying face-to-face interaction have been by turns fascinated and frustrated by the “small” scale of their object and the scrutiny it seemed to demand.  How did the “interpersonal” relate to the “institutional,” “micropolitics” to “mass” politics? Mr. Lempert   is currently leading a team-based ethnography of “liberal listening,” funded by The Wenner-Gren Foundation.

More Info


SANGER LEADERSHIP CENTER

Emerging Leaders Summit


Thurs, Mar. 23 @ 11 am – 3:45 pm
Michigan Ross


This summit is offered as part of Women in Leadership, a program sponsored by General Motors (GM) and open to all. We seek to provide space to increase agency, amplify women’s voices, and work with women and allies to overcome barriers. Speakers include Chris Willams, Sue Ashford, and Shellie Seyfarth.

More Info


WILLIAM DAVIDSON INSTITUTE

WDI Case Writing Competitions


Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Competition
Due, Fri, Mar. 31


Energy Innovation in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Due Fri, Mar. 31

You are invited to enter our competitions and support and strengthen diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) skills and knowledge for today’s students, who will become tomorrow’s global business leaders. WDI Publishing and the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business are proud to present the annual Global Case Writing Competition.


MICHIGAN ROSS DEI

Virtual Allyship Workshop


Thurs, Mar. 30 @ 7:30 pm
Register by Thurs, Mar. 16
Virtual


Please join us for an interactive virtual workshop that will provide foundational educational knowledge and tools. This program is open to all students, staff, and faculty, and will take place on March 30, 2023 from 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm ET on Zoom. Pre-work will be assigned and sent two weeks before the program to maximize our time together, and will take approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Please register by 3/16/23. A zoom link will be sent after completing the registration form.

Register Here


PLANET BLUE

Sustainability Honors Cord


Applications due
Mon, Apr. 3


The Excellence in Sustainability Honors Cord program is designed to recognize students who went above and beyond to advance their knowledge, skills, and practice of sustainability ethics while studying at U-M.The acceptance to the Excellence in Sustainability Honors Cord program will allow students to receive an Excellence in Sustainability Honors Cord for graduation, join an exclusive alumni LinkedIn Network, and the opportunity to be part of a sustainability spotlight series.


Apply Now


SANGER LEADERSHIP CENTER

Leadership Dialogues: Kofi Bruce


Mon, Apr. 10 @ 4:30-5:30 pm
Tauber Colloquium, Michigan Ross


The Sanger Leadership Center‘s next event will feature Kofi Bruce, CFO of General Mills, with Associate Dean for Engaged Learning & Professional Development, Gretchen Spreitzer. The in-person session is open to the entire University of Michigan community, including students, staff, faculty and alumni.A recording of the conversation will be posted on Sanger’s Youtube channel after the event. A virtual livestream feed will be NOT be available for this event. 


More Info


EISENBERG INSTITUTE FOR HISTORICAL STUDIES

Race, Politics, and the Modern Metropolis


Thurs, Apr. 13 @ 6-8 pm
Anderson Room, Michigan Union

Come join Thomas J. Sugrue in conversation with U-M historians Angela D. Dillard and Matthew D. Lassiter as they discuss the historical roots of the current challenges facing American cities. Topics include politics, urban history, civil rights, faith, the carceral state, and police violence.


Info & Registration


In the Impact Community:

2023 American Express NGen Fellowship


Applications due
Mon, Mar. 27 @ 11:59 PT


The American Express NGen Fellows program provides 12 changemakers, 40 and under, a dynamic leadership development opportunity. This program will strengthen their leadership capacity and grow their personal and professional network. You can apply yourself or nominate another person with a vision for racial equity, adaptive leadership, system change, and peer learning.

Apply Here


Public Allies

Apply Now

Public Allies Metro Detroit is a program of the U of M-Dearborn, and a proud member of the AmeriCorps national service network. The program is made possible through funding of the Corporation for National and the Community Service and Michigan Community Service Commission. Apply now for fall opportunities.

Application Info


Skoll World Forum


Apr. 12-14
Virtual /Free

Joining the Forum online is free and open to everyone on Hopin, a virtual event platform where you can watch Oxford plenaries and sessions and connect with other virtual attendees. Please contact registration@skoll.org with any questions. The registration deadline is April 10.


Info & Registration

February 2023 Newsletter

 

SeaSpider Wins the 2023 Michigan Business Challenge – Seigle Impact Track


We’re excited to share that the winner of the 2023 Michigan Business Challenge – Seigle Impact Track is SeaSpider – (Joe Huang, CS ’22; Adam Zhang, BS Environment ’23). The venture won the finals on Fri, Feb. 10. SeaSpider is  a student venture aiming at the identification and removal of abandoned fishing nets in sensitive coral reefs. The runner up was International Footprint. This competition is sponsored by the Mark and Robin Seigle Entrepreneurial Innovation Fund and co-managed by the Zell Lurie Institute and Business+Impact.

READ FULL RESULTS


Public Forum on Nonprofit Boards and Communities: Mar. 15


“Community Connections: Forging Equitable Relationships Between Nonprofit Boards and the Communities They Serve”

Wed, Mar 15 @ 5:30-7:30 pm
Blau Hall, B0560

As nonprofit organizations grow, it is easy for board members to become increasingly disconnected from the community members they serve. What actions can boards take to be sure community voices are included, without tokenizing individual community members? How are boards rethinking organizational structures to foster equity and inclusion? We invite the public to join Board Fellowship students and staff for this interactive panel discussion with local nonprofit leaders. Dinner will be served. Please register through Eventbrite.

REGISTER HERE


Summer Impact Internship Funding Application

Apply now!

Each summer, Business+Impact awards competitive grants for summer internships to MBAs and BBA juniors in the Ross School of Business as well as MPP students in the Ford School of Public Policy.
 
The application for these monetary awards has just opened and will be considered on a rolling basis until April 18th. Award decisions will be based on the level of need (taking into account other funding being received), consideration of the position, the organization’s impact, and the quality of the application.

APPLY NOW


+Impact Studio Stories

Following a very successful Design Jam with UMS, we met up with CultureVerse in the +Impact Studio to continue our dialogue about the intersection of business, design, and the arts! It was such a joy to give them a tour of the Impact Design Lab and highlight the many ways we infuse #designthinking into shaping social impact concepts.

DESIGN JAM WEBSITE

Also, we just dropped a new episode in our Social Impact Design for Business podcast series.  In this episode Jerry Davis of the +Impact Studio interviews five faculty of the University of Michigan to find out what is inspiring them in the area of green energy.  It’s titled “Inspiration from the Green Energy Transition.”

LISTEN HERE

DetroitIsIt wrote a feature on our BA670 +Impact Studio course taking place this semester at Michigan Ross. Entitled “Educating for Purpose to Empower Business to Impact as a Force for Good”, the story shares how the +Impact Studio is developing architects of the future that are solving problems with critical thinking. In discussing the course, Jerry Davis says, “The intent is to translate insights from students, faculty, and stakeholders into practical solutions for businesses.”

READ MORE

 

Save Date! Support Social Impact Students on Giving BlueDay

Give on:
Wed, Mar. 15

We invite you to give to B+I’s Social Impact Internship Fund (313726) on Giving BlueDay March 15! You’ll enable Michigan Ross talent to make an impact in the community by reducing financial barriers to complete a social impact internship. Your gift directly supports summer stipends for undergraduate and  graduate students.

Plan to Donate Here


 

Ross DEI Research Awards Program

The Ross Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, in collaboration with the Dean’s Office and the Ross Faculty and Staff DEI committees, is pleased to announce the third annual Ross DEI Awards. The awards will be presented at the Annual DEI Awards event on April 24, 2023. Nominations are now being accepted, as follows:

Faculty Research Award ($5000) – Nomination letters by faculty should be submitted to Donna O’Brien via email (obriendo@umich.edu) by Wed, Feb. 22, 2023.

PhD Student Research Award ($3000) – Nomination letters by advisors should be submitted to Donna O’Brien via email (obriendo@umich.edu) by Wed, Feb. 22, 2023.

BBA Senior Thesis Award ($1000) – Nominations by advisors must be include an extended abstract of the BBA thesis. Nominations should be submitted to Donna O’Brien via email (obriendo@umich.edu) by Fri, Mar. 24, 2023.

J. Frank Yates Diversity and Inclusion Teaching Excellence Award ($5000) – Self-nominations are also accepted. Please complete the nomination form by Wed, Feb. 22, 2023.

Ross Staff DEI Impact Award ($3000) – Nominations are accepted from all current members of the Ross community, including students, staff, and faculty. Self-nominations are also accepted. Please complete the nomination form by Wed, Feb. 22, 2023.


 

DNEP +Impact Studio for Local Business Offering Paid Internships

Apply by Tues, Feb. 28

The Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project’s +Impact Studio for Local Business is seeking 15 sophomore and junior interns for its summer internship program starting in May. This is a paid (16/hour), full-time, in-person 10 week internship program that involves working in multidisciplinary teams to implement solutions for a portfolio of Detroit minority-owned businesses.

Apply by Tues, Feb. 28

Image of Impact Gateway homepage.

A Searchable Platform for All Things Impact at Ross and Across Campus


The Business+Impact Gateway provides you with a single location for all things impact. Here you’ll find all of the activities, people and key partners working to use their learning to make a real impact in the world. 

IMPACT GATEWAY

At the University:

STUDENT SUSTAINABILITY COALITION

Seeking SSC Team Members


Applications Due
Tues, Feb. 14

The Student Sustainability Coalition is a student organization dedicated to promoting a sustainable campus culture by using the Collective Impact Framework to connect and elevate campus-wide student sustainability efforts. Applications for the 2023-24 SSC team are now open. 

Learn more and apply at this link


DONIA HUMAN RIGHTS CENTER & PACLSHR

Fair Labor Association Fellowships


Applications Due:
Wed, Feb, 15 @ Midnight

The Fair Labor Association (FLA) seeks to provide current graduate or advanced undergraduate students of the University of Michigan with two internship opportunities to learn about labor and human rights issues and challenges in agricultural and apparel supply chains. These followships are open to any U-M graduate student or U-M advanced undergraduate student (at least two years of completed college education). Students graduating in Spring 2023 are not eligible

More Info


FORD SCHOOL

Policy Talks @ Ford


The Ford School hosts a diverse array of timely, meaningful events that engage with students, community, and public policy leaders. During the coming month, the Ford School will host this wide-ranging and powerful series of talks on diversity, poverty and immigration.

New perspectives on college choice: The role of family, gender, and career planning in the education decisions of college ready students from families with low incomes
Feb 16, 2023, 12:00-12:50 pm EST 1210 Weill Hall


Governing for environmental justice
Mar 6, 2023, 4:30-6:00 pm EST
Weill Hall #1110 (Betty Ford Classroom)


CENTER FOR RACIAL JUSTICE

Racial Justice Events

The Center for Racial Justice hosts a diverse array of timely, meaningful events that engage our students, community, and public policy leaders. Here are some upcoming events for consideration:

Farah Mahesri on decolonizing development
Feb 17, 2023, 1:00-4:00 pm EST
Weill Hall (Paul and Nancy O’Neill Classroom)

Changemaking from the inside with Gabrielle Wyatt
Feb 23, 2023, 12:00-1:30 pm EST

Activating joy with Holly Bass: Creative practices for authentic community building
Mar 9, 2023, 12:00-1:30 pm EST

All Events


TEDxUofM

TEDx “Glitch In” Comes to UM

Fri, Feb. 17 @ 6-10 pm
Power Center for the Performing Arts


TEDxUofM is a university-wide initiative to galvanize the Ann Arbor and University of Michigan community for an event like no other; filled with inspiration, discovery, and excitement. Borrowing the template from the world-renowned TED conference, TEDxUofM aims to bring a TED-like experience to the University of Michigan. Plan now on attending “Glitch In” at the Power Center

Get Tickets


BUSINESS+TECH

Closing the Gap – From Austin to Ann Arbor

Fri, Feb. 17 @ 10 am – 4 pm
Blau Hall, Blau Colloquium


Business+Tech and the Entrepreneurship & Venture Capital Club will partner to host a Black History Month event dedicated to closing the racial, gender and monetary gaps that exist in the tech, venture capital, and entrepreneurship industries.  Leveraging experiences and connections made at the AFROTECH conference in Austin last November, this first-of-its-kind collaboration will provide participants with an insight into what these non-traditional career fields look like from the perspective of historically overlooked professionals.

Info & RSVP


WOMEN OF COLOR TASK FORCE

WCTF Career Conference

Fri, Mar. 3 @ 8:15 am – 4 pm ET
Virtual and at Rogel Ballroom – Michigan Union
Register by Tues, Feb. 8 at Noon ET

The Women of Color Task Force is excited to host its 41st annual career conference this year on March 3, 2023. Pre–registration is required to participate in all events and sessions. Morning conference sessions will be presented virtually. The keynote luncheon and afternoon sessions will be in-person at the Michigan Union.  All session times are in Eastern Standard Time Zone. The keynote presentation will take place at 12:00 pm EST at a luncheon in the Rogel Ballroom at the Michigan Union.

Info & Registration


WILLIAM DAVIDSON INSTITUTE

DEI Global Case Writing Competition

Enter Now

You are invited to enter our competition and support and strengthen diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) skills and knowledge for today’s students, who will become tomorrow’s global business leaders. WDI Publishing and the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business are proud to present the second annual DEI Global Case Writing Competition.

More Info


DESAI

Accelerator Cohort Applications

Applications due
Mon, Mar. 6


Get excited to spend eight months with mentors, subject matter experts, investors, and interns who are committed to your success! Acceptance to the University of Michigan’s alumni accelerator adds credibility to your early-stage startup, and provides a strong support system of people who understand you and your business. We’ve recently expanded our eligibility criteria!

Apply Now


CENTER FOR THE EDUCATION OF WOMEN

2023 Paid Fellowship Applications

Applications due
Mon, Mar. 6


Applications for four CEW+ fellowships are now open. Fellowship funds for the current application can be awarded in Winter 2023, Spring/Summer 2023, or Fall 2023. Applications must meet be student-designed research that is tied to degree requirements and focused on issues of importance to women, and must involve travel abroad for students in public health, environmental health, or another health-related field. Most CEW+ Fellowships range between $2,000 and $5,000.

Apply Now


In the Impact Community:

21 Day Equity Challenge

Sign up to participate this month

United Way of Washtenaw County (UWWC) has a vision that by 2030 your zip code will no longer determine your opportunity in life. At present in Washtenaw County, it does. Join United Way on a virtual self-guided learning journey examining the history and impacts of racism and how it shapes people’s lived experience in Washtenaw County. Along the way, you’ll also receive examples and tools on how to undo racism and build racial equity and justice.

Sign up now!


Public Allies

Apply Now

Public Allies Metro Detroit is a program of the U of M-Dearborn, and a proud member of the AmeriCorps national service network. The program is made possible through funding of the Corporation for National and the Community Service and Michigan Community Service Commission. Apply now for fall opportunities.

Application Info


Natural Products Expo West

Mar. 7-11, 2023
Anaheim, CA

Natural Products Expo West 2023 is just over a month away; and the full agenda is now online, featuring everything lined up for a in-person and digital experience! From the exhibit hall to the classroom, and everything in-between, this year’s Expo West is built to spark business success in natural products

Info & Registration

January 2023 Newsletter

Anti-Racism and Racial Justice

This week we celebrate MLK Day. The life, legacy, scholarship, and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. provide us with powerful wisdom and a profound call to action. It is a call to imagine and build a just and loving world. Business+Impact is committed to the work of dismantling the structures of systemic racism and to collectively imagining and building a just future where all can thrive. We must examine how we live our values each day, and seek to continually educate ourselves and others in the work of advancing justice and equity. 

SEE OUR RESOURCES


Summer Impact Internship Funding Application

Apply now!

Each summer, Business+Impact awards competitive grants for summer internships to MBAs and BBA juniors in the Ross School of Business as well as MPP students in the Ford School of Public Policy.
 
The application for these monetary awards has just opened and will be considered on a rolling basis until April 18th. Award decisions will be based on the level of need (taking into account other funding being received), consideration of the position, the organization’s impact, and the quality of the application.

APPLY NOW


Ross Open Road Applications


Applications Due:
Mon, Jan 30


Open Road is an action-based social entrepreneurship program taking place in May, where MBAs drive from state to state meeting socially- and environmentally-driven entrepreneurs. Students spend one week on-site in each location, working closely with the entrepreneur to provide a solution or recommendation to a business problem they are facing, then they move on to the next city and the next entrepreneur.
 
Open Road @ Ross is a student club powered by Ford Motor Company Foundation and co-sponsored by Business+Impact and the Zell Lurie Institute.

APPLY NOW


+Impact Studio Stories

Applebaum Impact Design Fellows and +Impact Studio Founders are gearing up for a new impact-focused semester. Starting with a heavy focus on prototyping, venture teams will go deeper in testing and defining their offerings. For the broader campus community, events in the space continue to guide and direct students interested in design thinking for impact. Check out these recent stories:


MEDIUM: +Impact Studio Propels Financial Equity & Climate Action Ventures to Success

Applebaum Family Philanthropy and Guests Guide +Impact Studio Founders and Applebaum Design Fellows During Special Visit

+Impact Studio Course Kicks Off 

The +Impact Studio course (BA670) met for the first time this Winter on January 11th, and welcomed 50 students. Taught by Jerry Davis and Cat Johnson, and attended by grad students from several colleges across campus, the Winter 2023 course will examine ways to design community-based enterprises for the green energy transition with a view toward fair wages and community building.


The +Impact Studio Applebaum Impact Design Fellowship application is open for Winter 2023!


Applebaum Impact Design Fellows serve as temporary venture co-founders working to support the +Impact Studio Founders Program & prototype studio concepts. Fellows will support ventures focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and will help take ideas from concept to prototype during the Winter semester. We are seeking students with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, enthusiasm for collaboration, and a commitment to impact to join our collaborative design community!

APPLY HERE


Ross Event Highlights:


B+T: Datathon and FinTech Challenge Info Session
Wed, Jan. 18 @ 5:30
Virtual

CPO: Unlock the True Power of Purpose
Mon, Jan. 23 @ 11 am ET
Virtual

ROSS DEI: Diversity Week
Jan. 30 – Feb. 3
Ross School of Business

CPO: Mastering Community
Tues, Feb. 7 @ 2 pm ET
Virtual

Blueprints for Pangaea U-M Seeks Applicants for Winter Cycle

Case Workshop
Tues, Jan 17 @ 6 pm
Kuenzel Ballroom, Michigan Union


Application Workshop
Thurs, Jan 19 @ 6 pm
On Zoom


Blueprints for Pangaea is a student-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit that ships excess, unused medical supplies from U.S. hospitals to areas in need overseas. Our mission is to mobilize accessible healthcare in emerging communities. At the two events above, B4P members will provide insight on the inner workings of each department and answer your questions. Then APPLY by Sat, Jan. 21 at 11:59 pm ET. Speed dating and interviews will take place the last week of January.

APPLY HERE


5th Annual Women Who Launch Symposium

Fri, Jan 20 @ 9:30 am
At a Private Location

The Women Who Launch Symposium 2023 explores the theme of “Empower”. This event will engage hundreds of women interested in entrepreneurship and investing through speakers, panelists, workshops, and networking opportunities. In addition to notable speakers, the event includes lunch, a self defense workshop, and happy hour.

Women Who Launch is a student group led by MBA candidates at the Ross School of Business. We empower women to engage with entrepreneurship, whether as funders, founders, or team members, and we’re dedicated to creating a gender-equal entrepreneurial ecosystem on our campus and in our careers.

CONFERENCE INFO

Image of Impact Gateway homepage.

A Searchable Platform for All Things Impact at Ross and Across Campus


The Business+Impact Gateway provides you with a single location for all things impact. Here you’ll find all of the activities, people and key partners working to use their learning to make a real impact in the world. 

IMPACT GATEWAY

At the University:

TROTTER MULTICULTURAL CENTER

Kaleidescope Conversations


“Colorism”
Tues, Jan. 17 @ 6 – 7:30 pm
Large Meeting Room, Trotter Multicultural Center

“Race and Disability”
Wed, Feb. 1 @ 6 – 7:30 pm
Large Meeting Room, Trotter Multicultural Center


Kaleidoscope conversations will provide an opportunity for students to come together for a conversation with their peers and get the chance to dive beneath the surface, lean into vulnerability, and to explore the struggles and stories that make up our lives.  In this session will we discuss the legacy of colorism and the ways in which it continues to impact the lives of people of color.


RSVP Here


SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

James A. Kelly Learning Levers Prize


Proposals accepted
Dec. 1, 2022 – Mar. 12, 2023

Bring your passion and make an impact on pre-K–12 Education. The James A. Kelly Learning Levers Prize is a student pitch competition that supports scalable, research-based ideas that promote learning in pre-K–12 education. All U-M undergraduate and graduate students from the Ann Arbor, Dearborn, or Flint campuses can enter as individuals or teams.

Learn more


OFFICE OF ACADEMIC MULTICULTURAL INITIATIVES

MLK Events on Campus


Below are a number of highlighted events commemorating the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this year:

“Racism in the White Church” – Tues, Jan. 17 @ 1 pm

Linda Villarosa “Under the Skin” – Tues, Jan. 17 @ 4:30 pm

Anti-Racism Teach-In – Tues, Jan. 24 @ 3 pm

6th Annual Rackham King Talks – Thurs, Jan 26 @ 6 pm

Alice Wairimu Nderitu “Racial Injustice” – Wed, Jan 31 @ 4 pm

See the complete listing of events


GINSBERG CENTER

Learning in Community Workshops


Fri, Jan. 20 @ Noon – Virtual

Tues, Jan. 24 @ 6 pm – Virtual

Fri, Feb 10 @ Noon – Virtual

Wed, Feb 15 @ 6 pm – Virtual

The Ginsberg Center offers multiple workshops to support students and staff who are working with communities through courses, student organizations or independently. Learning in Community (LinC) is an educational workshop and training series focused on supporting those interested in community engagement, social justice, democratic engagement, advocacy, activism and philanthropy.


FORD SCHOOL

Policy Talks @ Ford


The Ford School hosts a diverse array of timely, meaningful events that engage with students, community, and public policy leaders. During the coming month, the Ford School will host this wide-ranging and powerful series of talks on diversity, poverty and immigration.

Masterclass in Activism with Angela Harrelson – Fri, Jan. 20 @ 4 pm

Teacher Diversity and Student Success: Why Racial Representation Matters in the Classroom – Tues, Jan. 24 @ 4 pm

Jelani Cobb on “The half-life of freedom: Notes on race, media and democracy” – Tues, Jan. 24 @ 6 pm


POVERTY SOLUTIONS

Research Assistant Job Posting


Applications Due:
Wed, Jan. 25


Poverty Solutions is looking for a Research Assistant to support the United Way for Southeastern Michigan on their Financial Well-Being Innovation Challenge, a grant challenge that provides significant technical assistance and support to community organizations before and while they pilot their proposed economic and financial mobility-enhancing Detroit-based programs.

Apply Now


WILLIAM DAVIDSON INSTITUTE

DEI Global Case Writing Competition


Intent-to-Enter Form
Due Tues, Jan. 31

You are invited to enter our competition and support and strengthen diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) skills and knowledge for today’s students, who will become tomorrow’s global business leaders. WDI Publishing and the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business are proud to present the second annual DEI Global Case Writing Competition.

More Info


LSA

Semester in Detroit

Applications due
Tues, Jan 31


Semester in Detroit applications are accepted on a rolling basis, which means that the earlier you apply, the better chance you have of getting in. The Semester in Detroit spring program accepts undergraduate students from all schools and departments at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. All students, from Freshmen to Seniors or Super Seniors are eligible to apply.

Apply Now


In the Impact Community:

Centering Justice


Thurs, Jan. 18 @ Noon-1:30
Online


In this session, NEW will explore how we exit old oppressive systems, and build new ways of being and working together through Just Transition. What is Just Transition? It’s how communities build thriving economies that provide dignified, productive and ecologically sustainable livelihoods; democratic governance and ecological resilience. 

RSVP Here


21 Day Equity Challenge


Sign up to participate during
Black History Month


United Way of Washtenaw County (UWWC) has a vision that by 2030 your zip code will no longer determine your opportunity in life. At present in Washtenaw County, it does. Join United Way on a virtual self-guided learning journey examining the history and impacts of racism and how it shapes people’s lived experience in Washtenaw County. Along the way, you’ll also receive examples and tools on how to undo racism and build racial equity and justice.

Sign up now!


Creative Washtenaw


Volunteer now

Help Creative Washtenaw conduct surveys for a national study called “Arts & Economic Prosperity 6” in partnership with Americans for the Arts. As a survey volunteer, you’ll join our call list and have the opportunity to collect surveys at an upcoming arts + cultural event in town. Fill out our volunteer form, and we will be in touch soon!

Volunteer Here


Circular Plastics Challenge


Apply by
Mon, Feb. 13

Net Impact’s Circular Plastics Challenge calls upon innovators, systems-thinkers, and practitioners from all walks of life and levels of study to consider,”How might we keep plastics in the economy and out of the environment by using upstream innovation to reduce plastic leakage?” Up to five teams will be selected as finalists in the Circular Plastics Challenge. Finalist teams will gain exclusive access to a career-focused industry connections event where they will hear from and network with subject matter experts in the fields of material circulation and sustainability. Finalist teams will present their solution to a panel of expert judges at the final showcase event. 


Apply Here