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"CU Grow made me gain a different, fresh perspective. Many times, I questioned my ideas or second-guessed myself, but having a mentor helped me work out my strategies. She helped me understand and make a better, clearer picture of my ideas and how to use social media to express my ideas as a marketing technique."

"Through guidance and mentorship, we have been able to flesh out ideas and approaches, not only to ascertain whether they are feasible but how to implement them. Being held accountable is something I am not used to, but needed. I was focused on making the necessary changes for my strategic growth plan."

"The CU Grow team has helped place our company on the institution's radar screen through networking opportunities provided during the procurement events and introductions to buyers and other Columbia resources."

"The CU Grow Vendor Development Program has challenged me to document more. I relied a lot on memory, although it is not the best way to convey, analyze, gauge, or confirm progress or setbacks, etc. The program allowed me to adopt the RACI Chart and Key Performance Indicators. The SMART 3-year growth plan culminated the program."

"I discovered there is a science to running a successful business and a wealth of information and resources available to help you. Passion alone is not enough to become successful. It must be combined with knowledge, training, and skill. The tools and resources were new, different, and very effective. The prep work and coaching sessions forced me to get out of my comfort zone and think outside the box."

"The CU Grow program has given us tremendous insight and provided us with resources on how to record and formulate our growth. We’ve learned that taking the time to go through the worksheets and review the available literature can drastically change the course and direction of your company, if you follow through with its proposition. If anything, we’ve gained respect for the concept of strategic planning."