How to work with Shopfront

How it works

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• The process

  Step 1: Submit a project proposal

  Complete our online proposal form and tell us about your organisation, project idea and goals. You can submit a proposal at any time.  

  Step 2: We review your proposal

  The Shopfront team assesses whether the project is a good fit for the program and identifies relevant subject and faculty partnerships. We may contact you for further information. 

  Step 3: Develop your project brief

  If the proposal progresses, we'll work with you to develop a detailed project brief outlining objectives, timelines and expectations.  

  Step 4: Students begin work

  Your project is allocated to a student team under academic supervision. You'll meet with the students to discuss the project and answer questions.  

  Step 5: Collaborate throughout the semester

  Students work on the project while receiving support from academic staff and Shopfront. You'll provide feedback and guidance throughout the process.  

  Step 6: Receive your final project

  At the end of the teaching session, students present their work and hand over final recommendations, resources or project outputs.

• Our partners

  We partner with: 

  • not-for-profit organisations
  • charities
  • social enterprises
  • community groups
  • peak bodies, and
  • organisations creating positive social or environmental impact.

  We work with organisations of different sizes and stages, from emerging community groups through to established organisations with local, national and international reach.

  If you're unsure whether your organisation is eligible, please contact us to discuss your idea.

  To participate in Shopfront, your organisation must nominate a key contact who can: 

  • be the primary contact for the project
  • attend meetings with students
  • provide feedback throughout the semester
  • dedicate up to two hours per week to the project, and
  • attend meetings online or in person when required.

  Having an engaged organisational contact is one of the most important factors in a successful partnership.

• Know before you apply

  There is no cost to participate

  Shopfront students work on projects in a voluntary capacity. There is no fee for community organisations to participate. 

  Not every proposal can be accommodated 

  Project placement depends on factors such as: 

  • suitability for coursework
  • availability of student expertise
  • teaching session timelines, and
  • capacity within participating subjects.

  Projects are part of student learning

  Students complete projects as part of their coursework and are supported by academics and Shopfront staff. Projects are designed to create meaningful outcomes for organisations while providing valuable learning opportunities for students.

  Previous Shopfront partners are welcome to reapply

  However, as we have a limited number of places, we will prioritise new organisations in our selection process to provide them with the opportunity to benefit from the program.