Fremont Chamber members can get free business help from SFBU students

On September 8, the Fremont Chamber of Commerce and San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) launched a joint program offering Fremont businesses free assistance from SFBU students and faculty. This initiative aims to provide valuable support to local businesses while giving students practical experience in a real-world setting. The partnership was officially launched by Teresa Hoang, the chamber's chief executive, and Shalini Gopalkrishnan, SFBU's AI strategist, and is open to all Fremont Chamber members.

The impact of this program on the local business community is significant, as it addresses a wide range of needs that businesses might otherwise have to pay for or postpone. From AI integration and workflow automation to cybersecurity and branding, the services offered can help businesses enhance their operations and digital presence. This collaboration not only aids in the growth and development of local enterprises but also provides a platform for students to apply their skills in a professional setting, benefiting both parties.

Fremont and San Francisco Bay University have a history of fostering educational and economic partnerships, with previous collaborations focused on workforce development and community engagement. The Fremont Chamber of Commerce has long been a supporter of initiatives that enhance the local business environment, while SFBU has a strong tradition of integrating academic learning with practical experience. This partnership builds on these foundations, with the university taking the lead in managing the project from start to finish, ensuring that businesses receive the support they need without the burden of managing student teams.

Businesses interested in participating can fill out the university's interest form at this link or email SFBU with a brief description of their needs. The SFBU team will then follow up directly to discuss the details and match the business with the appropriate student and faculty resources. The program is currently open to all chamber members, with no specified deadline for applications.

As the program gets underway, both organizations are eager to hear from businesses that have already benefited from SFBU's assistance. If you own or work at a Fremont business that has taken on an SFBU project, the Fremont Chamber of Commerce would like to hear your story. You can share your experience by sending a note. This feedback will help the chamber and SFBU refine and expand the program to better serve the needs of the local business community.