Certificate in Entrepreneurship

The Certificate in Entrepreneurship is a comprehensive short course designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully plan and manage a small or medium-sized business. Throughout the program, you’ll gain insights into the entrepreneurship process, from initial planning to implementation. This course is tailored to help you identify promising business opportunities and adapt your strategies to the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. It follows the innovative Sense-Making Loop developed by Prof. Bernie van Zijl, a renowned business and startup expert at Business School Netherlands.

Upon completing the program, you’ll have a well-defined framework for making effective business decisions and fostering business growth. An official E-certificate from Business School Netherlands is awarded upon successful completion.

Features of the Online Action Learning Leadership Programme

• Taught in English.
• Delivered online in a combination of self-study and online interactive sessions.
• You’ll learn important decision-making skills and analytical strategies for implementing business plans.
• You’ll enjoy individual mentoring and guidance from a business and start-up expert.
• Take part in interactive group sessions and share your ideas, challenges and questions.
• 10-12 participants per group.

The course takes place over 5 weeks with 1 orientation week

The course content follows the Sense-making Loop, which focuses on the following components:

1. Management of Uncertainties: Identifying and prioritising SME risks
2. Conversation Partners: A networked and interpersonal approach to Business Coaching
3. Goal-setting
4. Planning Process: Financial, Marketing, and Strategic Business decisions
5. Programme Knowledge: High Impact Management Strategies, 360 Degrees in Marketing, Fundamentals of Finance, Art of Questions
6. Cashflow Optimising
7. Shared Understanding

Course Delivery

• 30 Hours per Week for 5 Weeks
• 3x Saturday Zoom Workshop Sessions
• 15 Hours per Week – Self-directed Learning Activities
• 4 Hours per Week – Online Learning
• 3 Hours per Week – Discussions and Reflection
• 4 Hours per Week – Use it Now (practical implementation)

Assessment

Assessments will take place after each unit.

1. Aspiring Entrepreneurs: The course is designed for individuals who aspire to become entrepreneurs or are in the early stages of starting their own businesses. They should have a strong interest in developing their entrepreneurial skills and launching successful ventures.
2. Business Enthusiasts: Students who have a genuine passion for business, innovation, and problem-solving would thrive in this course. They should be excited about learning how to manage various aspects of a business and adapt their strategies to different situations.
3. Open to Learning: The ideal student should be open-minded and eager to learn. Since the course covers a range of topics related to entrepreneurship, including uncertainties, goal-setting, planning, finance, marketing, and more, a willingness to explore new concepts is essential.
4. Adaptability: Entrepreneurship often involves dealing with uncertain and changing circumstances. Students who are adaptable, flexible, and capable of adjusting their strategies based on new information and market dynamics will benefit greatly from the course’s teachings.
5. Networking Mindset: A strong emphasis is placed on the importance of interpersonal skills and networking. Students who value building relationships and understand the benefits of a networked approach to business coaching and growth will find the course valuable.
6. Analytical Thinkers: The course covers components such as managing uncertainties, financial planning, and strategic decision-making. Students who are comfortable with analyzing data, evaluating risks, and making informed choices would excel in these areas.
7. Goal-Oriented: The course emphasizes goal-setting and achievement. Ideal students should have a proactive attitude toward setting and pursuing both short-term and long-term goals for their businesses.
8. Strong Communication Skills: Given the focus on conversation partners and shared understanding, students who can effectively communicate their ideas, ask pertinent questions, and engage in meaningful discussions will maximize their learning experience.
9. Entrepreneurial Spirit: The course’s intention is to equip students with the skills needed to run a successful business. An entrepreneurial spirit, including a willingness to take calculated risks and pursue innovative ideas, is a crucial aspect.

Remember that while these characteristics describe the ideal student, individuals with varying backgrounds and experiences can benefit from the course. The key is to have a strong interest in entrepreneurship, business management, and a commitment to learning and growing in these areas.

Fee Options:

• EUR 1,950 (VAT Exempt)
• EUR 680 (VAT Exempt) – Sustainable Development Goals scholarship fee applicable to applicants from Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean

Included: Study materials, online coaching, and assessments

Have you found the perfect programme with us? Awesome! Start your application.

Step 1 (optional) : Schedule a personal consultation

During a personal consultation you will receive a detailed explanation of the programme and will have the opportunity to ask all your questions. In addition, our advisor will work with you to see whether this program is in line with your work, ambitions and curriculum and whether you qualify for exemptions.

Step 2: Fill out the online application form

It’s important to fill out the application correctly and attach all the supporting documents requested.  As soon as we receive your application, you will be sent an email with instructions of your next steps.