We’re proud to announce that Deakin University’s Business Development Clinic (BDC) was recognised as one of three finalists for the “Excellence in Pedagogical Innovation Award” at the 2025 United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE) Awards.

Global Recognition for Educational Innovation

The USASBE Excellence in Pedagogical Innovation Award celebrates groundbreaking approaches to entrepreneurship education that demonstrate significant impact on student learning. Being selected as a finalist from a competitive global field highlights the BDC’s innovative teaching methodology and its effectiveness in preparing students for real-world business challenges.

The awards ceremony was held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, as part of the annual USASBE Conference in Las Vegas, which brings together leading entrepreneurship educators and researchers from around the world.

The BDC Difference

The Business Development Clinic’s unique approach flips the traditional consulting model by having students teach small business owners a strategy-informed decision-making methodology focused on profit growth. This role reversal creates a deeper level of learning that follows Bloom’s Taxonomy – from remembering concepts to ultimately creating and teaching strategic solutions.

Using the innovative 7 Levers Framework as a diagnostic tool, BDC student teams analyse SME client operations across seven key business levers to identify growth opportunities and develop practical, implementable strategies.

Looking Forward

While we didn’t take home the top prize this year, being recognised as a finalist by USASBE validates our innovative approach and positions the Business Development Clinic as a global leader in entrepreneurship education.

“This recognition reinforces our commitment to providing students with transformative learning experiences that deliver real value to business partners,” says Professor of Practice Pete Williams. “We’re continuing to refine our methodology and expand our impact both locally and internationally.”

The BDC team will build on this recognition as they continue to evolve the program and share their innovative teaching model with other institutions around the world.