Students from Columbia Law's Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic (ECDC) provided contract guidance to current participants in the CU Grow Vendor Development Program during a pop-up clinic on April 14th. The legal pop-up clinic, which provided assistance in strategizing, negotiating, drafting, and reviewing contracts and agreements, is a newly added component to the CU Grow program’s curriculum.
Thirteen law students supported 10 minority-, women-, and locally-owned (MWL) businesses in contract negotiations strategies and offered firms feedback on language to include in future contract provisions. In addition to the pop-up clinic, the ECDC also hosted a Contract Review Webinar for the 6th cohort, providing examples of contract language used in contracts within the construction industry and offering guidance on contract deal breakers.
“Having the opportunity to participate at the pop-up clinic was invaluable,” says Pauline Charles –Ajim, CEO of JPR Builder 07, a general construction firm that specializes in residential and commercial renovations. “The students were great and provided insights to deal with upcoming contracts from our clients moving forward.”
Launched in 2018, the ECDC pop-up clinic provides Columbia Law students with the opportunity to develop business law and problem-solving skills while representing entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, and community groups.
The CU Grow Program follows a structured curriculum designed by the Columbia University School of Professional Studies. The program pairs MWL businesses with expert coaches that guide them to create a three–year growth plan. The program also provides access to resources such as the law clinic to teach firms best business practices so that they can strategically plan for their business growth.
Learn more about the CU Grow Vendor Development Program and Columbia Law's ECDC.