The initiative connects student consultancy teams with organisations to tackle real business challenges through short-term, structured projects.

Participating businesses receive research-driven insights and recommendations at no cost, while students gain valuable workplace experience and develop their professional skills. 

During the June 2026 cohort, three organisations partnered with Arden University on four live projects focused on growth strategy, customer targeting and digital marketing.

A total of 27 students were selected from more than 100 applicants, with the highest number of applications coming from Arden's Birmingham campus. 

Students praised the opportunity to work on genuine business challenges and apply their learning in a professional environment. 

One participant described the experience as “a highlight of my first year at university”, while another said: “Getting to work directly on a growth and acquisition strategy for an actual client has been a brilliant opportunity to build genuine workplace skills and develop collaborative teamwork habits.”

Businesses involved in the programme also highlighted the quality and value of the students' work. 

Rob Kerner, from The StartUp Founders Toolkit, said: “I was really pleased with the in-depth research that the team produced and how well they responded to feedback.

“This is a great way to gain a fresh perspective on a current business challenge while giving students a real project to explore.”

Jon Evans of The Small Consultancy added: “Having taken part in similar programmes with other universities, I was immediately struck by the high level the Arden students were working at.

“The final projects were well researched and contained insights and advice that we are able to implement within the business. We would definitely take part again.”

Pippa Welch, the Work-Based Learning Manager from Arden University, said: “Our Virtual Micro-Internships Programme creates meaningful connections between students and employers.

“Businesses benefit from new ideas and informed recommendations, while students gain the confidence and practical experience needed to succeed in their future careers.”

The programme forms part of Arden University's wider work-based learning offer, helping students develop employability skills through real-world projects and employer engagement. 

Businesses interested in hosting a future student consultancy team are encouraged to contact Arden University's Work-Based Learning team by emailing WBL@arden.ac.uk