Business in Action
At Zimpleman College of Business, learning does not end in the classroom. Through community-focused projects, internships, and initiatives where students use business principles to work with real organizations throughout the Des Moines metro community. Whether it’s data analysis for nonprofits or crafting marketing plans for small businesses, students not only gain valuable hands-on experience and make a positive difference in the community.
Applied Learning Through Centers & Initiatives
Zimpleman houses several centers and programs focused on entrepreneurship, innovation, and community impact.
An academic enrichment and leadership development center that helps entrepreneurial students connect with other aspiring innovators both inside and outside the classroom.
Connect with students, alumni, and community business leaders through shared learning experiences.
Working with Insurtech founders, insurance carriers, and authors, students examine a current issue in insurance and identify potential solutions. Recommendations identified through the evaluation and research process are presented to insurance company executives
Business Clinic Programs
The Business Clinic is all about providing hands-on support for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and community organizations. They offer valuable guidance, engaging workshops, and personalized coaching to help these groups expand their operations and build wealth. It's a collaborative effort where students and community members come together to develop practical business solutions.
Through structured 11-week programming, the Business Clinic Workshop Series equips participants with entrepreneurial tools and mentorship. Throughout this journey, a variety of workshops dive into practical subjects like business planning, customer discovery, and design principles. Plus, there are plenty of chances for students to engage and learn directly from their peers.
Classes That Make an Impact
Zimpleman brings a fresh approach to learning by weaving in meaningful community engagement. In the classroom, students dive into projects that span analytics, consulting, and marketing strategy, often collaborating with real clients. This hands-on experience allows them to tackle genuine challenges faced by partner organizations and nonprofits. It’s a perfect fit with Drake's commitment to community-engaged learning values.
Student Engagement & Social Impact
For Zimpleman students, Business as a Force for Good is not only how they approach their professional experiences but how they are part of their communities. Through class activities, clubs, and student organizations, Zimpleman students engage in a wide variety of community service activities. Students who make community service a priority are recognized through the Dean’s Honor Roll for Social Impact. Through the student-led Positive Impact Rating survey, students guide how Zimpleman executes on its commitment to positive impact.
Experience That Matters
Community-engaged learning at Zimpleman equips students to think critically, act ethically, and lead with professionalism. By collaborating with real businesses and community partners, students not only gain industry knowledge but also build confidence, expand their networks, and create a tangible impact.
Real clients. Real communities. Real impact.
It all starts with the right degree. See what Zimpleman has to offer.