Consultancy Project
This project supports a company in addressing a key strategic challenge by combining in-depth market research with innovative approaches and forward-thinking solutions.
Module
Independent Applied Study
Duration
June - September
Student expertise (level of study)
Masters
Research-based solutions to your business challenge

A key component of our Entrepreneurship & Innovation Management MSc is students undertaking an individual project, which offers them the opportunity to apply their learning through a real-world challenge—while delivering fresh insights and value to your business.
One of the options available to students is the Business Consultancy Project—a hands-on engagement where a dedicated student works on a strategic issue or opportunity within your organisation. Through this collaboration, students develop skills in entrepreneurship, innovation management, market research, project delivery, and problem-solving—enhancing their own career prospects while contributing directly to your company’s goals.
If a strong fit is identified through our thorough recruitment and matching process, a student will be assigned to your project. They will be supported throughout by a dedicated academic supervisor, who ensures academic rigour while helping align the work with your objectives. In addition to their project work, students receive 12 hours of targeted training in areas such as project management, market research, primary data collection, and the practical application of theoretical frameworks and tools.
This is a unique opportunity to benefit from fresh thinking, university expertise, and meaningful collaboration—while supporting the development of the next generation of innovation leaders.
How it works

Once a suitable student is identified, the consultancy project begins with a kick-off meeting, attended by you (the client), the student and their academic supervisor. This meeting is used to define the scope and objectives of the project, agree on key parameters, and set expectations on both sides. Following this meeting, the student will prepare a formal project brief, which outlines the challenge and its context, the project objectives, proposed methodology, deliverables, timeline, and the preferred channels and frequency of communication.
As part of their academic assessment, each student is required to submit a 12,000-word report, offering a comprehensive, evidence-based analysis of the challenge and their recommendations. In addition to this report, you may agree—together with the student and the academic supervisor—on a practical output tailored to your business needs (should be part of the project brief). This could include, for example, a website prototype, a digital marketing campaign, a product design, a live presentation, or a database.
At the end of the project, the student is evaluated against the objectives outlined in the project brief, and your feedback forms an important part of the overall assessment.
The Consultancy Project has seen several significant successes and accomplishments, demonstrating the student’s exceptional effort and expertise in various aspects of the project.Segio DaSilva, Co-Founder of Surrey Manufacturing Ltd
Here's how the project excelled and provided valuable in-depth analysis in key areas:
Business model analysis: the insights and recommendations have not only identified areas for improvement but have also introduced innovative business model techniques to enhance the existing framework.
Lead generation enhancement: The project has excelled in devising strategies to boost lead generation.
Market entry strategy: The comprehensive analysis of industry trends, competitive landscape, and market demands has led to the development of a well-defined and effective market entry strategy.
Why get involved
- Cost-effective resources: Partner businesses gain access to student resources supported by academic staff for designated research agreed in a consulting brief.
- Real-world business challenges: The consulting brief is structured around bespoke business needs of partner businesses such as validating new business models, developing go-to-market strategies, or optimising business processes like digital transformation.
- Fresh perspectives: Students can offer innovative ideas, supported by in-depth market research including primary data such as insights from your current and potential customers, users, partners, and industry experts.
- Knowledge transfer: The designated student supported by academic staff can deliver impact with their research so that they influence business decision-making for partner businesses.
The delivered project shows clear research in the areas we discussed; it also points to areas we hadn’t considered. It gives both clear direction and clear frameworks of research to develop further. Overall, a great report, and far exceeded our expectations, looking forward to implementing the student’s suggestions!James Morris, Founder of Trafalgar Marquees
What we need from your company
- Your input shapes the project: We ask for your contribution in defining the initial project brief, outlining your goals, challenges, and expectations.
- Active engagement: A designated company contact should be available to support the student throughout the project—typically through at least four one-hour meetings (online or in person).
- Information sharing: A willingness to share relevant information needed to achieve the agreed project outcomes (with an NDA in place if required).

Get in touch today
If you’re a business looking to collaborate with developing student talent and receive tailored insights into your own industry challenges, please contact us. The B-Clinic at Surrey Business School is your opportunity to gain practical solutions while shaping the next generation of business leaders.