EMPOWERING
U OF M STUDENTS

UMRF Ventures, a subsidiary of the University of Memphis Research Foundation, provides well-paid, real-world job opportunities to University of Memphis students, preparing them for successful careers. By partnering with leading companies, the organization offers hands-on experience that often leads to full-time employment after graduation, strengthening both student futures and the local business community.

Our employees have made lasting impressions with our partners, click here to view first-hand accounts of our Talent Pipeline

Why work with UMRF
Ventures?
Students
Well-paid, flexible work schedules:
Student employees earn competitive wages (typically $15–$25/hour, with supervisory roles paying more) while working only 10–20 hours per week—fully designed around their class schedules and campus life.
Hands‑on, career‑relevant experience:
UMRF Ventures employs students in a variety of roles—such as cybersecurity, billing support, identity access management, and contact/service centers—offering practical learning opportunities across multiple industries.
Post‑graduation employment pipeline:
Since 2017, more than 900 student employees have worked with UMRF Ventures. Many are hired full‑time by partner companies once they graduate, demonstrating a strong track record of career advancement.

Partners
Access to a skilled and motivated student workforce:
Customers benefit from a reliable pipeline of University of Memphis students who bring fresh perspectives, technical knowledge, and a strong work ethic to support business operations.
Cost-effective and scalable solutions:
UMRF Ventures offers partners flexible staffing models that reduce overhead costs while maintaining high-quality service in areas such as tech support, billing, and customer service.
Support for local economic and talent development:
By partnering with UMRF Ventures, companies invest in the Memphis community, helping to develop the next generation of professionals and strengthening ties with a major research university.

Want to learn more? Visit What We Do for more information.

Ayla Amador

Raymond James

"UMRF Ventures is a great place to jumpstart a career in cybersecurity. I've gained valuable experience from working with UMRF Ventures. I am grateful for the continued guidance and support I've received. I look forward to being able to help others grow just as much as I have!"

Mohamad Shami

Raymond James

"UMRF Ventures is a great stepping stone into the cybersecurity world. Being an Identity Access Management Agent, has helped me gain the knowledge and experience needed to understand and develop my skills when it comes to this field. UMRF Ventures helped train, educate, and lead me on to pursuing this career path even with no prior experience. My co-workers and management have done a great job in creating a healthy and educational work environment; including providing opportunities to go above and beyond!"

Hector Mendoza

Raymond James

"UMRF Ventures has been instrumental in accelerating my professional growth. When I joined a year ago, I was a student equipped with strong academic knowledge but had limited practical experience beyond the classroom. Working alongside Raymond James professional IT teams on real-world projects provided me with invaluable opportunities to apply classroom theories to real-world challenges."

Synithia Harris

Raymond James

"UMRF Ventures has provided me with extensive experience in the IT field. I have advanced to the position of shift lead within my department, allowing me to embrace a leadership role that has significantly enhanced my leadership skills. My experience at UMRF Ventures has not only deepened my expertise but also offered me valuable opportunities to share my journey and insights into my work."

Jonathan Hanna

First Horizon

"My time at UMRF Ventures has significantly enhanced my leadership skills. Within a year, I've advanced from a standard agent to a Supervisor, gaining confidence I hadn't experienced before. I've had the unique opportunity to lead a diverse team and collaborate with a major utility company. This role has opened many doors for me, and I'm excited to see what comes next."


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