Students combine business and legal expertise

 

Through the PINSS Project (Pro Bono/Ivey NPO Support Services) launched today, students are offering free consulting that packs a double whammy of both legal and strategic elements.
 
Initiated by Pro Bono Students Canada (PBSC) at Western Law and Ivey Connects, a student-run group at The Richard Ivey School of Business, the project will tackle problems with both legal and business components.
 
“Many issues faced by non-profit organizations are complex and involve business and legal aspects,” says Avneet Grewal, Coordinator of Pro Bono Students Canada at Western Law. “By combining our expertise, we are able to offer a unique service to non-profit organizations that assists them with both their business and legal needs.”
 
Organizations often grapple with problems the PINSS Project can tackle, such as the issue of renting versus owning a new building. This issue involves legal elements, such as renters’ rights and the analysis of provincial/municipal property law, and business analysis weighing the costs and benefits of options.
 
Additionally, when dealing with new legislation, non-profit organizations often require legal analysis of what the legislation means and how it differs from previous law, as well as how that could change their business strategies in the future.
 
Kate Woodford, an undergraduate business student and Executive Director of HBA Ivey Connects, says the project’s timing couldn’t be better as non-profits are undoubtedly feeling pinched during this economic downturn.
 
“This project allows us to give back more than ever when it’s needed most. We’re excited about the opportunity to promote values such as voluntarism and philanthropy with our students, to make a lasting impact in our community and to see the practical application of our combined knowledge,” she says.
 
Students will be supervised by a lawyer-mentor from PBSC and a faculty member from Ivey Business School for the project.
 
Applications for the program are now available and are being accepted until July 13.