UW-Stout offers both class-based and standalone instructor-led projects that connect students and faculty with external partners across industries, non-profits, and government entities. Projects are collaboratively developed, providing applied learning experiences for students while supporting external organizational goals. Flexible engagement options allow projects to align with academic calendars or operate independently.
- Organizations can start class or standalone instructor-led projects in several ways—by reaching out directly to the Office of Corporate Relations & Economic Engagement (OCREE), through referrals from campus faculty and staff, or by connecting with us at outreach events. These collaborations span businesses in every industry, nonprofit organizations, and local or state government entities.
- Once a project is initiated, the instructor and external partner work side by side to shape the plan. Together, they define the project, background, scope of work, timelines, and deliverables. This ensures clarity and shared goals from the start.
- Every project has a Technical Assistance Project (TAP) Agreement that keeps everyone aligned and protects UW-Stout students, faculty/staff, and our external partners, ensuring clarity and peace of mind for all involved.
Non-Disclosure Agreements
UW-Stout does not require non-disclosure or intellectual property agreements for class or standalone projects. However, a UW System–approved NDA that includes IP provisions is available upon request by the external partner. Any requested negotiations are managed through the Office of Corporate Relations & Economic Engagement (OCREE) and require review by the OCREE Executive Director and UW System legal counsel.
- UW-Stout operates under a fee-for-service model, with project costs and budgets determined collaboratively based on the project scope, scale, and resource requirements.
- Class Projects: Once applicable expenses are covered, any remaining funds are reinvested into the project host department to maintain equipment, enhance technology, and support enriched learning experiences for both students and instructors.
- Standalone Projects: Instructors and students who complete standalone projects are paid for their work. Lab fees and equipment usage fees are also applied based on project need.
Additional Costs
The external partner is typically responsible for supplying any required project materials. These may be ordered directly by the external partner and shipped to UW-Stout, following coordination with the instructor to ensure proper timing and delivery.
- Class projects follow the academic calendar. Projects may last 1 semester or multiple semesters, depending on project needs. Please allow 2-3 weeks for project development and signing of TAP Agreements prior to the start of the semester for smooth initiation of projects. Utilization of non-disclosure agreements will add additional time to the project development phase.
- Standalone instructor-led projects operate independently of the academic calendar and may span anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Project coordination typically involves 2–3 meetings with UW-Stout staff to define scope, align expectations, and finalize logistics before the Technical Assistance Project Agreement is sent out. Utilization of non-disclosure agreements will add additional time to the project development phase.
When selecting a project for UW-Stout students, aim for opportunities that:
- Offer flexibility—projects should be open-ended and allow for multiple solutions, whether research-based, design-focused, or analytical.
- Are applicable & relevant—outcomes should align with your organization’s needs while matching student skills and experience.
- Encourage collaboration and impact—deliverables should create tangible value, such as prototypes, proposed solutions, research findings, or reports.