Venture Builder is a cross-disciplinary internship program offered by the Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, part of the TCU Neeley School of Business. This program connects TCU students with underrepresented, at-need small businesses and early-stage startups, providing entrepreneurial support at no cost. Over a 16-week period, students apply their skills to create meaningful contributions to the business world and society.
Led by Cedric James, Director of Student Engagement at TCU IdeaFactory, the program identifies and selects five local businesses each semester. These businesses present their challenges to diverse student teams, who then assess the feasibility, desirability, profitability, and design of the business operations. During the closing ceremony, the teams present their findings and actionable recommendations to the businesses.
The program integrates students from various disciplines, including design, engineering, and business, to collaborate on developing marketing strategies and business plans. Under expert mentorship, these students use their training to assist underserved businesses in improving their processes. This hands-on experience helps students gain practical insights into entrepreneurship, including the challenges and demands of running a business.
“Working with underserved businesses without access to resources helps students see real-world situations with companies that may be struggling and in need of help,” says James. “The program moves beyond the classroom format, placing students in active roles within businesses.”
A Win-Win for Students and Businesses
The Venture Builder Program benefits both the participating businesses and the student interns. Students gain valuable experience, while businesses receive much-needed support to improve their operations. According to James, the program was established to give students practical opportunities to work on real-world projects. He collaborated with organizations to bring the concept to life.
Venture Builder has partnered with groups such as the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce and Braver 2Gather to identify minority-owned and underserved businesses that could benefit from the program. Mentor Debbie Cooley joined the initiative to provide a female perspective and suggested beginning with businesses in the Como community. “There are many businesses around us that could benefit from just a little support. This program can provide that support, and Como was a great place to start,” Cooley explains.
Additionally, the program collaborates with the Entrepreneurship Organization (EO), a global network established in 1987 that supports entrepreneurs through access to experienced professionals. Venture Builder leverages EO’s vast networks, expertise, and resources, with EO members serving as mentors for the student teams. “Collaborating with various EO chapters enhances the program’s impact,” says Rodney D’Souza, Executive Director for the Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the Davis Family Entrepreneur in Residence.
Program Highlights
The program accepts up to fifteen students per semester, ensuring a selective and impactful experience. James emphasizes the dual responsibility of students: “For those selected, it’s not just about their learning experience but also about what they can do to support the company’s growth and sustainability.”
Since launching this phase of the program five years ago, Venture Builder has remained focused on its mission to empower both student participants and underserved entrepreneurs. “Each semester, we refine the process, always keeping our mission at the forefront,” James adds.
By bridging the gap between student talent and community needs, the Venture Builder Program continues to make a significant impact on local businesses while shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs.
