Global Business Brigades at Penn State
Our Work
Total Number of Brigades
01
Total Clients Impacted
02
Total Number of Students Involved
10
Total Funds Raised
$15,100
Key Skills Developed
Powerpoint and Deliverable Design
Accounting and Marketing Competence
Service-Based Leadership
Intercultural Competencies and Cultural Awareness
Project Management and Human-Centered Design
2023 - 2024
2024 Summer Greece Brigade
During our week-long volunteer trip to Greece, a team of college students embarked on a journey to support small business owners. As part of our consulting initiative, we provided hands-on assistance and strategic advice to help these entrepreneurs enhance and expand their businesses. Through workshops, one-on-one consultations, and collaborative brainstorming sessions, we aimed to empower these businesses with practical tools and innovative solutions to drive growth and success. This immersive experience not only contributed to the local economy but also enriched our understanding of global business practices and cultural dynamics.
2024 - 2025
We created a curriculum designed to foster a deep understanding of international development. Participants will learn how to create meaningful impact, both in formal and international development roles. Lessons are enriched with anecdotes from industry professionals, providing practical insights and grounding theoretical knowledge in real-world experience. This program also aims to ignite enthusiasm for the upcoming brigade in May and establish a robust foundation for ongoing professional growth.
Panama Business Brigades give volunteers the opportunity to take part in the economic transformation of under-resourced, rural communities. A high percentage of the rural population in Panama lives in poverty and is financially excluded.
On brigade, volunteers will work directly with clients to provide practical, effective consultations that help community members grow their businesses. To further ensure sustainability and lasting impact, volunteers will deliver financial literacy workshops to provide community members with lasting knowledge. Every brigade will consult the caja rural, or community bank, which lends capital to community members and allows members to open savings accounts. A portion of volunteer donations will go directly to the community bank to increase lending capacity.