Who is a Community Partner?
A community partner is an organization that collaborates with our student teams to solve real-world information
system challenges. Partners range from nonprofits and government entities to startups and private businesses.
Our
goal is to create impactful solutions that not only benefit our partners but also provide our students with
invaluable real-world experience.
Any organization facing an information system challenge can apply to become a community partner. We're
particularly
interested in organizations aiming to bridge the digital divide, supporting underprivileged communities, and
looking
to enhance their technological capabilities.
When you choose to work with our IS students, the collaboration is focused on creating sustainable solutions
tailored to fit your organization's needs. Through this partnership we hope you come away with innovative
solutions,
enhanced technical capacity, and fresh perspectives. This is an opportunity to tackle your most pressing
problems
while contributing to the education and growth of our students.
There is no fee to participate, but your commitment is key. You'll actively engage with the student team for at least an hour a week, respond quickly to feedback requests, and share your domain expertise. There are mandatory meetings where all community partners are asked to come on campus. In return for your time and attention, you'll receive innovative solutions and improvements tailored to your organization.
To apply, fill out the application form on our website. Fully one third of our community partners return in
subsequent semesters. This success stems from a commitment to delivering real value and fostering meaningful
partnerships.
Quotes from Real Community Members, Faculty, and Students
Community Impact
From 2015 through 2024, the IS Consulting Project course has collaborated with 160 Community
Partners,
with
255 project teams, contributing 159,550 hours to our communities. With each project, students
invest 540
hours, guided by 90 hours of faculty advising. Notably, 35% of our partners return in
subsequent years, and 8
have partnered with us more than 4 times, emphasizing sustained success and trust. Together, our efforts
contribute to a lasting positive influence within the communities we serve.
Our student teams have effectively collaborated with several
organizations from startups to government institutions.
Project Teams
Student Hours
Courses to Partner With
If you are would like to know more in-depth about partnering for a
specific course, you can also learn more about the courses below.
Apply Now to Become a Community Partner!
Applications to become a Community Partner are accepted all year round
although we do have a deadline for the cut-off date for each of the
courses. Fill out the application form and we will get back to you as
soon as possible.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a
shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its
heart are the
17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and
developing - in a global partnership.
Carnegie Mellon University students have applied a range of technologies
to address diverse Sustainable Development Goals, showcasing their
commitment to sustainability across various sectors.
#1
No Poverty
#2
Zero Hunger
#3
Equality
#4
Good Health
#5
Quality Education
#6
Gender Equality
#7
Clean Water
#8
Clean Energy
#9
Economic Growth
#10
Industry Innovation
#11
Reduced Inequality
#12
Sustainable Cities
#13
Responsible Consumption
#14
Climate Action
#15
Life Below Water
#16
Life on Land
#17
Peace, Justice, Institutions
#18
Partnership for the Goals