Center for Global Business News

Between the fall and spring semesters of 2025-26, 90 undergraduates at the Robert H. Smith School of Business studied international business in the UAE, Spain, Malaysia, Singapore and Switzerland, exploring global markets, culture and industry through immersive courses and hands-on learning experiences.

Nearly 80 Robert H. Smith School of Business students visited embassies along Washington’s Embassy Row for the Center for Global Business’s annual Embassy Day, gaining firsthand insight into global economies, trade relationships and business cultures from representatives of nine countries.

Erik Peterson of Kearney outlined five “global wildcards” shaping 2026-2031 at the Center for Global Business Distinguished Speakers in International Business Series at the Smith School. He cited geopolitical instability, economic fragmentation, artificial intelligence and synthetic biology as forces reshaping business and government.

Maryland businesses faced rising costs, federal workforce cuts and new tariffs in 2025, but a statewide survey shows cautious optimism for early 2026. Firms reported weaker performance yet increased investment, while structural challenges continue to weigh on the state’s business climate.

New research from the Center for Global Business shows that study abroad programs enhance students’ career outcomes—leading to quicker job placement, higher salaries, and stronger global skills—highlighting how international experiences help graduates stand out in a competitive, tech-driven job market.

The University of Maryland’s Smith School hosted the Maryland Veterans Small Business Week Celebration in College Park, honoring 12 veteran-owned businesses statewide for excellence in entrepreneurship, innovation and community service during National Veterans Small Business Week 2025.

Students from across the University of Maryland participated in the Center for Global Business’ Careers Crossing Borders Case Interview Competition, developing global business skills while presenting market expansion strategies for biotech firm AkriVita. The event fostered cross-campus collaboration, networking, and professional readiness.

Students at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business gathered Sept. 25 for the first Careers Crossing Borders “Mini Roundtable on Careers in Global Trade,” where professionals shared insights and networking opportunities on navigating evolving global markets and trade careers.

The Center for Global Business relaunched its Maximizing Maryland Graduate Internship Program and sent undergraduates abroad through its Global Summer Internship Program, connecting 31 students with employers worldwide. Students gained real-world experience while companies benefited from strong talent in global operations and strategy.

Three Smith students joined peers from across the Americas at the 2025 CUIBE Global Summer Leadership Summit in Medellín, Colombia, gaining hands-on experience in global consulting, sustainability strategy and cultural exchange through workshops, field research and project-based learning.