Innovation in Higher Education: Connecting Student Class Projects with Businesses

Politicians understand that the future of innovation rests in the hands of higher education. According to the National Association of State Budget Officers State Expenditure Report for Fiscal Year 2009 states spent 14 percent of state spending, or $139 billion on higher education. It is the politician’s responsibility to keep higher education accountable, they must ensure that colleges and universities are preparing students for the real world. StringHub is a web-based platform that connects university student class projects with businesses who can utilize these projects and provide a real world learning experience for students at the same time. There are three reasons for politicians to support StringHub: 1. Reduce Brain Drain - StringHub will connect students with businesses to help:

● Gain real world experience● Connect with potential employers for jobs and internships● Create a portfolio of completed work

All of these things will help your city or state reduce “brain drain” because these students will have built meaningful relationships with businesses. 2. Economic Development - Businesses (especially small businesses) need help with things like marketing, web design, video production, engineering and more. For many businesses, simple class projects could drive major growth for the business. For example, The Center for Project Excellence at the University of Dayton reports that over the past 25 years, “Nearly 300 completed projects have resulted in documented savings of more than $25 million for the participating businesses” Student class projects can have real economic impact on a local or regional economy. 3. Inspire Entrepreneurship - When students have the opportunity to work on projects with business owners and entrepreneurs they will have a chance to witness what it takes to be an entrepreneur, as well as, be inspired to launch their own entrepreneurial ventures. The businesses they work with while in school may serve as mentors, customers or even investors when the students launch their own business. StringHub is a simple and free tool that can have a profound impact in the effectiveness of higher education. State and local elected officials, please take this opportunity to send a quick note or email to your colleges and universities and let them know about

www.stringhub.com. If you have any questions at all please feel free to contact me at adam@stringhub.com. Sincerely, Adam HoeksemaCo-Founder - StringHub