The VCU School of Business Department of Marketing claimed another success with the completion of its renowned International Market Plan Project (MRBL 657) in the spring of 2006. Each year the Department of Marketing teams up with the T.C. Williams School of Law at the University of Richmond to deliver a truly unique ‘real-world’, hands-on market planning experience for their students.

A team of 12 graduate students from THE School of Business explored market opportunities in two different regions of the world, while a team of five law students from the University of Richmond explored the legal aspects in those same regions. The client, Performance Fibers, received a comprehensive report and a professional presentation at the completion of the course.

“The IMPP course is a win-win for all involved. The client company gets low cost, high quality market research, and graduate students gain experience working as consultants in a professional environment. The knowledge and insights that students get from this course bolster their resumes and give them a competitive advantage when entering the job market.”
--Jeff Geiger, International Marketing Specialist, VEDP and VCU faculty member.

Students were excited to work with Jeff Geiger and viewed him not only as a project facilitator, but as a mentor and a group member. VEDP was created in 1995 by the General Assembly to provide services that promote business growth in Virginia.

"With his broad industry experience, Jeff helped us with international market research and planning. We were able to create a presentation and report that was well recognized by the client."
--Hiren Kotak, VCU MBA Student--

The Law Team was guided by William J. Benos, adjunct professor at the T.C. Williams School of Law, and a Partner in the International Practice Section with Williams Mullin.

Companies interested in engaging a project team of VCU marketing students to investigate their marketing dilemma are encouraged to contact Dr. Frank Franzak, Marketing Department chair. . He cautions that all projects cannot be taken on, due to the number of requests. But situations that provide a good learning experience are likely to result in a mutually beneficial outcome. Also, g Companies interested in engaging a project team of VCU marketing students to investigate their marketing dilemma are also encouraged to contact Frank Franzak. He cautions that all projects cannot be taken on, due to the number of requests. But situations that provide a good learning experience are likely to result in a mutually beneficial outcome. graduate students with an interest in International Marketing Research, Global Marketing Strategy, and Project Planning should contact Dr. Frank Franzak, Chair, Department of Marketing at fjfranza@vcu.edu