University of Richmond’s Spider Business Hub Recognized by AACSB’s Innovations That Inspire Program

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business has recognized the Robins School of Business Spider Business Hub in its Innovations That Inspire member spotlight program.

AACSB is the world’s largest business education alliance with over 1,900 member schools. UR is one of 26 schools selected for the 2025 Innovations That Inspire initiative, which highlights innovative ways that business schools are partnering with businesses to elevate communities and enhance the student experience.

The Spider Business Hub pairs business students with organizations in the Richmond area and beyond to help solve problems through project-based learning. It was selected as an Innovations That Inspire program for providing a coordinated and welcoming hub for community partners while providing students with real-world experience.  

“The Spider Business Hub is a signature initiative of the Robins School that embodies our commitment to experiential learning and innovation. By immersing students directly in real-world projects, it provides invaluable professional experience and the opportunity to develop strong client relationship skills well before graduation,” said Mickey Quiñones, dean of the Robins School of Business. “We’re honored that AACSB has recognized our program as an Innovation That Inspires, highlighting its meaningful impact.”

Established in 2021, the Spider Business Hub works with over 400 students a year.

“The Spider Business Hub shows students actionable ways to use the things that they’re learning in class, and develops soft skills like professional communication and project management through interactions with our partners,” said marketing professor Sara Hanson, faculty director of the Spider Business Hub.

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