Hands-on Business Training for Students
Minnesota State University (MSU) is offering students a unique, real-world learning opportunity through its Integrated Business Experience (IBE) program. This semester-long course immerses students in the practicalities of business operations, providing them with a chance to develop essential entrepreneurial skills while running their own businesses. Through this experience, students gain hands-on exposure to crucial elements of business management, including obtaining loans, marketing products, and managing a team—all while contributing to meaningful causes.
This year, four student groups are participating, each focusing on a different product theme, ranging from pet care to mental health awareness. The groups not only have to operate their businesses but also use their platform to support various charitable causes. This blend of education and community engagement makes IBE a valuable stepping stone for students aiming to jump-start their careers in business.
Northern Companions: Helping Pets in Need
The first group, Northern Companions, has chosen to cater to pet lovers by selling a range of products designed for animals. Their product line includes pet bandanas, matching T-shirts for owners and pets, and various toys for dogs and cats. What sets Northern Companions apart is their commitment to giving back. All profits from their sales are donated to Mending Spirits Animal Rescue, a local organization focused on rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need.
Tyler Brueggemeyer, the CEO of Northern Companions, emphasized the group’s desire to make a positive impact on both pets and the local community. “We want our customers to know that every purchase supports homeless pets right here in our community,” he said. “Your purchase changes the lives of homeless pets and helps us grow as young entrepreneurs.”
Students and community members can find Northern Companions’ products through their online store at northerncompanions.myshopify.com or by attending various campus events. The group has also participated in local events such as PetExpo and PetSmart, where they set up tables to engage with pet lovers directly. For those interested in following their journey, they can also check out their Instagram @northerncompanions.
EchoChill: Supporting Veterans with Every Sip
Another group, EchoChill, is selling a line of durable 2-in-1 koozie tumblers and coasters. All proceeds from their sales go toward supporting the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV), a foundation dedicated to ending veteran homelessness. The group is particularly passionate about this cause, with one of their members being a veteran themselves.
“We want our community to know that we are committed to providing durable 2-in-1 koozie tumblers and coasters directly to an amazing cause that is close to our hearts,” said Trevor Jones, CEO of EchoChill. “Supporting MACV is an honor for every single one of our members.”
EchoChill offers koozies in three sizes: a 16oz large, a 12oz regular, and a 12oz slim version. Each tumbler is priced at $30, while the coasters are available for $3. EchoChill has been selling their products both through social media and by tabling in the campus Student Union (CSU). For more information, students can visit their Instagram page @echochill.ibe.
Mindful North: Promoting Mental Health for Athletes
Mindful North is another group participating in IBE, but their focus is on a topic that is often overlooked—mental health, especially among athletes. Their merchandise aims to raise awareness and start conversations about mental health support in the athletic community. By using their products as a platform to address this important issue, Mindful North hopes to inspire athletes to seek help when needed and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
The group’s efforts are critical, as mental health concerns are on the rise among athletes at all levels of competition. They are using the IBE experience not only to build their business but to support a cause that resonates deeply within the sports community. Interested customers can find their products on Instagram @mindfulnorthmn.
Courtside Collective: A Pickleball Passion Project
The final group, Courtside Collective, is bringing a new sport to the spotlight—pickleball. Their business focuses on selling pickleball-related merchandise, including equipment and apparel, all while promoting the fun and accessible nature of the sport. Pickleball, which has seen a surge in popularity, is a fast-paced game that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, attracting players of all ages.
Courtside Collective is working hard to tap into the growing interest in the sport. Their products can be found on their Instagram @courtsidecollective.msu, where they also engage with their growing customer base.
Supporting Education and Social Causes
The Integrated Business Experience not only helps students hone their entrepreneurial skills but also gives them an opportunity to support meaningful causes that impact their communities. From mental health advocacy to veteran support and animal rescue, these student-led initiatives showcase the potential for businesses to make a difference.
Through their participation in IBE, students are learning valuable lessons in business strategy, teamwork, marketing, and financial management, all while giving back. Their efforts illustrate the power of combining business with social impact, creating a win-win situation for both the students and the causes they support.
By purchasing from these student-run businesses, individuals are not just supporting young entrepreneurs—they are contributing to the growth of vital causes in their local community.
