Summer Internship with North Carolina Small Business Technology Development Center
Ruchin Raj, Daytime MBA 2026
This summer, I worked as a Technology Commercialization Consultant with the North Carolina Small Business Technology Development Center (SBTDC). I worked closely with startups developing technically complex solutions: from energy transmission technologies tackling infrastructure challenges to fintech products reimagining payroll and tax services. What made this experience especially meaningful was the chance to see how technical innovation moves from concept to commercialization, and the role business strategy plays in that journey.
The work itself was varied and fast-paced, ranging from analyzing emerging market opportunities to advising on product development pathways. But what stood out to me beyond the projects was how each client team brought different backgrounds, from engineers and inventors to business leaders and policymakers, and I learned to adjust my approach to communicate across those perspectives. Translating technical detail into strategic direction required not only analysis but also understanding the motivations behind a founder’s vision and finding ways to connect that vision to market needs.
I also saw firsthand the resilience required to build in these industries, where uncertainty is constant and stakes are high. It taught me the importance of staying curious, asking thoughtful questions, and being comfortable working without a clear roadmap.
As I return to Fuqua, I’m excited to carry these lessons forward. Whether in the classroom, with my peers, or in my future career, I plan to keep building on the mindset of curiosity, adaptability, and empathy that this summer instilled in me. More than anything, the experience deepened my passion for working at the intersection of business and innovation to help ideas grow into lasting change.
This internship was supported by the Summer Internship Fund, which enables first-year Duke MBA students to learn about the rewards and challenges of using business to drive positive impact without making a significant financial sacrifice. The program enables organizations that otherwise could not afford to hire MBA student interns to benefit from students’ expertise. Funds are raised through student fundraising and from donors who believe in the mission of the program. If you would like to contribute, you can donate online using your credit card.