The original idea for 180 Degrees came in late 2007. Nathaniel Ware had been volunteering with various non-profit organizations when it dawned on him that the effectiveness of funds is just as important as the level of funds and yet most non-profit organizations have no access to affordable consulting services. At the same time Nathaniel realised that “students have more to offer than simply collecting money for worthwhile causes”. On one hand there were non-profits crying out for thoughtful business advice, and on the other hand were talented and enthusiastic students who wanted hands-on business experience.  So Nathaniel, with the help of a team of fellow students, established the first branch of 180 Degrees at The University of Sydney.

Soon after the commencement of 180 Degrees Consulting at in Australia, a branch was founded in Sweden by Henrik Storm Dyrssen and Charlotte Staf. Prior to starting 180 Degrees Consulting in Sweden, both Henrik and Charlotte had been extensively involved in other social entrepreneurship initiatives. Henrik had led a team of international students to develop ways to better connect young leaders of social enterprises across the world. Charlotte had explored models of engaging students in social issues, which led to her being awarded the GELS Scholarship. The ideas they both brought to 180 Degrees are today an integral part of the consulting operations.

In 2010 more branches were started in Mexico, Russia, and at the University of New South Wales (Australia) under the leadership of Gerardo Melendez, Ayumi Tsukamoto, and Cece Zhu respectively.

In early 2011 a branch of 180 Degrees Consulting was also started at Izmir University in Turkey.

180 Degrees Consulting continues to develop its unique student consulting program by creating an international network of independent branches that engage students in practically assisting socially conscious organizations.