How to work with Shopfront

Who can work with Shopfront? 

We partner with: 

• not-for-profit organisations
• charities
• social enterprises
• community groups
• peak bodies 
• 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. 

What makes a good Shopfront project? 

The strongest projects are those that: 

• address a clearly identified organisational or community need
• have practical outcomes that can be implemented or used by your organisation
• can be completed within a university teaching session
• align with student learning objectives 
• create value for both your organisation and the communities you serve. 

Projects don't need to be fully developed before you contact us. 
If you have an idea but aren't sure how to shape it into a project, our team can help.

How the process works

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.

Program timelines 

Shopfront projects generally run during UTS teaching sessions. 

Autumn session – March to June 
Spring session – August to November 

Project proposals can be submitted year-round and will be considered for upcoming teaching sessions.

Partner commitment 

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
• attend meetings online or in person when required. 

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

Things to know before you apply 

There is no cost to participate

Shopfront is a pro bono program. 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 
• 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.

Ready to work with Shopfront? 

If your organisation has a project idea – or even the beginnings of one – we'd love to hear from you.