ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups
The ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups is a comprehensive programme designed for learners eager to transform innovative ideas into successful business ventures. Spanning two years and comprising 240 credits, this diploma equips learners with the practical skills and strategic insights essential for navigating today’s dynamic entrepreneurial landscape.
Whether you are a fresher aiming to launch your first startup or a professional seeking to enhance your career prospects, this course offers a robust foundation in entrepreneurship. Learners gain expertise in areas such as business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, and operational leadership, ensuring they are prepared to make impactful decisions in competitive markets.
By completing this programme, learners will develop critical skills including problem-solving, risk management, and innovative thinking—competencies highly valued across industries worldwide. Career opportunities range from launching your own enterprise to taking on leadership roles within small and medium-sized businesses, consultancy, or business development.
Key benefits of the course include an in-depth understanding of startup ecosystems, hands-on project experience, and a portfolio of practical skills that demonstrate professional competence. Learners also gain confidence in strategic decision-making, enabling them to navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities effectively.
Ideal for ambitious learners aiming to combine entrepreneurial vision with actionable skills, the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups offers an internationally recognised pathway to professional growth and business success. Its structured, practical approach ensures learners graduate with the knowledge, experience, and confidence to thrive in the global business environment.
Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups, learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups, consists of 24 mandatory units.
Year 1 – Foundation and Core Entrepreneurship and Startups Principles
- Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Startup Ecosystems
- Principles of Business Management
- Business Law and Ethics
- Financial Accounting and Management
- Marketing Fundamentals for Startups
- Human Resource Management in Small Businesses
- Digital Business and E-Commerce
- Innovation and Creativity in Business
- Business Planning and Strategy
- Project Management Essentials
- Leadership and Team Development
- Business Communication and Professional Skills
Year 2 – Advanced Applications and Strategic Entrepreneurship and Startups
- Advanced Business Strategy and Competitive Analysis
- Startup Funding and Investment Management
- Financial Planning and Budgeting for Startups
- Operations and Supply Chain Management
- Marketing Strategy and Brand Development
- Risk Management and Business Sustainability
- Entrepreneurial Law and Compliance
- Digital Marketing and Social Media Strategy
- Strategic Decision Making and Problem Solving
- Business Analytics and Data-Driven Decisions
- Growth Management and Scaling Startups
- Capstone Project: Developing a Real-World Business Venture
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups:
Year 1 – Foundation and Core Entrepreneurship and Startups
1. Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Startup Ecosystems
- Understand global startup environments and market trends
- Recognise key entrepreneurial traits and success factors
- Analyse challenges and opportunities for new businesses
- Develop initial entrepreneurial ideas with practical insights
2. Principles of Business Management
- Learn core management principles for business operations
- Apply organisational structures to small and medium enterprises
- Evaluate management strategies for efficiency and growth
- Enhance decision-making skills in managerial contexts
3. Business Law and Ethics
- Understand the legal framework for startups and SMEs
- Apply ethical practices in business decision-making
- Identify compliance requirements for operations and contracts
- Recognise the importance of corporate governance
4. Financial Accounting and Management
- Prepare basic financial statements and reports
- Understand budgeting and cost control principles
- Analyse financial performance for informed decision-making
- Apply accounting tools to support business planning
5. Marketing Fundamentals for Startups
- Understand marketing concepts and consumer behaviour
- Develop effective marketing strategies for small businesses
- Analyse market trends and competitor activity
- Implement branding techniques to enhance visibility
6. Human Resource Management in Small Businesses
- Understand recruitment, selection, and retention strategies
- Develop employee engagement and performance management skills
- Apply leadership principles to team development
- Address workplace challenges and promote a positive culture
7. Digital Business and E-Commerce
- Explore digital business models and online platforms
- Implement e-commerce strategies to expand reach
- Understand cybersecurity and online legal compliance
- Leverage digital tools for operational efficiency
8. Innovation and Creativity in Business
- Apply creative problem-solving techniques
- Develop innovative products and services
- Analyse industry trends to identify opportunities
- Encourage a culture of innovation within teams
9. Business Planning and Strategy
- Create comprehensive business plans for startups
- Set realistic objectives and key performance indicators
- Conduct market analysis to inform strategic decisions
- Apply planning tools for operational and financial success
10. Project Management Essentials
- Understand project planning and scheduling techniques
- Manage resources effectively to achieve goals
- Monitor project progress and mitigate risks
- Apply project management software and tools
11. Leadership and Team Development
- Develop leadership styles suitable for entrepreneurial ventures
- Enhance communication and interpersonal skills
- Build and motivate high-performing teams
- Resolve conflicts and promote collaboration
12. Business Communication and Professional Skills
- Communicate effectively in professional contexts
- Develop presentations, reports, and business correspondence
- Apply negotiation and persuasion techniques
- Build networks and professional relationships
Year 2 – Advanced Applications and Strategic Entrepreneurship and Startups
1. Advanced Business Strategy and Competitive Analysis
- Analyse competitive landscapes and market dynamics
- Develop strategic business objectives and action plans
- Evaluate growth opportunities and risks
- Apply strategic frameworks to decision-making
2. Startup Funding and Investment Management
- Understand financing options for startups
- Prepare investment proposals and pitch decks
- Analyse financial viability and funding requirements
- Build relationships with investors and stakeholders
3. Financial Planning and Budgeting for Startups
- Develop detailed budgets and cash flow forecasts
- Implement financial control and monitoring systems
- Analyse profitability and cost efficiency
- Apply financial planning to support business growth
4. Operations and Supply Chain Management
- Understand operational processes and workflows
- Manage supply chains and vendor relationships
- Optimise productivity and resource allocation
- Analyse operational performance for improvements
5. Marketing Strategy and Brand Development
- Develop integrated marketing campaigns
- Build brand identity and market positioning
- Utilise digital and traditional marketing channels
- Evaluate marketing effectiveness and ROI
6. Risk Management and Business Sustainability
- Identify and assess business risks
- Develop mitigation strategies and contingency plans
- Promote sustainable business practices
- Monitor and evaluate risk management processes
7. Entrepreneurial Law and Compliance
- Understand legal requirements for business operations
- Apply intellectual property and contract law knowledge
- Ensure compliance with local and international regulations
- Recognise ethical responsibilities in business decisions
8. Digital Marketing and Social Media Strategy
- Implement digital marketing campaigns using social platforms
- Analyse audience engagement and metrics
- Develop content strategies aligned with business goals
- Leverage SEO, SEM, and analytics tools effectively
9. Strategic Decision Making and Problem Solving
- Apply analytical and critical thinking in business scenarios
- Develop solutions to complex operational challenges
- Make informed decisions under uncertainty
- Evaluate outcomes and adjust strategies accordingly
10. Business Analytics and Data-Driven Decisions
- Collect, analyse, and interpret business data
- Use data to drive operational and strategic decisions
- Identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for growth
- Apply analytics tools and software for business insights
11. Growth Management and Scaling Startups
- Plan strategies for business expansion and scaling
- Manage resources, operations, and human capital effectively
- Identify market opportunities for sustainable growth
- Apply best practices to ensure long-term business success
12. Capstone Project: Developing a Real-World Business Venture
- Plan and implement a complete business project
- Integrate knowledge from all previous units
- Analyse challenges and propose effective solutions
- Present professional business plans to stakeholders
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to advance their careers in a variety of business and entrepreneurial pathways. This programme provides a solid foundation for professional growth, enabling learners to take on leadership roles, launch their own ventures, or specialise in key areas of business management and innovation.
Entrepreneurial Careers
- Launch and manage your own startup or small business
- Explore opportunities in innovative sectors such as technology, e-commerce, and creative industries
- Develop a professional portfolio to attract investors or partners
- Build a network of business contacts and mentors for ongoing growth
Business Development and Management Roles
- Progress into leadership roles within SMEs or growing companies
- Manage projects, operations, and strategic initiatives
- Implement business development plans and growth strategies
- Lead teams and improve organisational efficiency and performance
Specialised Professional Roles
- Work in areas such as marketing strategy, digital business, or financial planning
- Apply analytical and strategic skills to support organisational decision-making
- Develop expertise in innovation management and sustainable business practices
- Serve as a consultant or advisor to startups and small enterprises
Professional Skills Enhancement
- Enhance problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making abilities
- Gain practical experience in entrepreneurship and business operations
- Improve communication, negotiation, and networking skills
- Position yourself as a competent professional ready to meet international business challenges
To successfully deliver the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups, centres must meet specific standards that ensure high-quality learning experiences and consistent compliance with ICTQual AB regulations. The following requirements provide a clear framework for centres to maintain professional, safe, and effective delivery of the programme.
Accreditation and Approval
- Centres must be officially approved to deliver ICTQual AB qualifications.
- Maintain compliance with ICTQual AB’s policies, procedures, and quality standards.
- Ensure timely communication with ICTQual AB for audits, updates, and support.
- Display the centre’s approved status prominently in promotional materials.
Learning Environment
- Provide a safe, accessible, and professional learning environment for all learners.
- Ensure classrooms or virtual platforms are equipped with the necessary technology.
- Maintain adequate space for practical activities, workshops, and group discussions.
- Offer facilities that support both independent and collaborative learning.
Qualified Trainers and Assessors
- Employ trainers with relevant qualifications, expertise, and industry experience.
- Ensure assessors are competent to evaluate learners against ICTQual AB standards.
- Provide continuous professional development for trainers and assessors.
- Maintain clear records of staff qualifications, training, and experience.
Learning Resources and Materials
- Supply up-to-date textbooks, digital resources, and reference materials.
- Provide access to online learning platforms and software required for the course.
- Ensure learners have sufficient materials for practical exercises and projects.
- Keep resources regularly reviewed and aligned with course updates.
Administrative and Operational Systems
- Maintain a robust enrolment, registration, and record-keeping system.
- Track learner progress, assessment outcomes, and attendance accurately.
- Ensure compliance with data protection and confidentiality regulations.
- Implement internal quality assurance processes to monitor performance and standards.
Assessment and Examination Facilities
- Provide secure and suitable facilities for assessments, exams, and practical tasks.
- Ensure all assessments comply with ICTQual AB guidelines and deadlines.
- Maintain procedures for handling assessment appeals and learner feedback.
- Support both formative and summative assessments effectively.
IT and Technical Infrastructure
- Ensure reliable internet connectivity and up-to-date hardware/software.
- Provide technical support to learners and staff during online sessions.
- Maintain secure systems for storing and submitting learner work.
- Facilitate digital learning, collaboration, and communication effectively.
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This pathway is ideal for learners who are new to entrepreneurship and business management and do not have prior professional experience.
- Admission: Learners enrol at an ICTQual AB approved centre to begin the two-year programme.
- Training: Learners complete a structured programme comprising 24 study units and 240 credits. Training combines classroom instruction, case studies, workshops, practical business exercises, and online support. Both strategic business knowledge and applied entrepreneurial skills are emphasised, including business planning, marketing, financial management, innovation, and operational leadership.
- Assessment: Learners are evaluated through written assignments, project portfolios, scenario-based tasks, and practical business projects. Assessments measure analytical, problem-solving, leadership, and professional practice skills. Formative feedback is provided throughout the programme to support continuous development and progression.
- Certification: Upon successful completion of all assessments, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups, recognising their competence in entrepreneurship, business management, and professional practice.
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
For learners who already have relevant professional experience in entrepreneurship or business management, a flexible route is available:
- Eligibility: Learners must demonstrate at least five years of verified professional experience in relevant roles. Evidence may include references, project records, reports, or portfolios confirming applied knowledge and skills.
- Assessment of Competence: Experienced candidates are not required to complete the full two-year programme. Centres assess whether the learner’s existing knowledge and skills meet the diploma’s learning outcomes through interviews, professional discussions, or competency evaluations.
- Evidence Submission: Learners submit a portfolio of evidence, including business plans, marketing strategies, operational reports, or financial records demonstrating competence. Additional verification may be requested if necessary.
- Knowledge and Understanding: Centres may conduct a skills gap analysis and provide short bridging modules to ensure full alignment with learning outcomes.
- Certification: Upon successful verification of experience and competence, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Startups, recognising both practical expertise and academic achievement.
This approach ensures that all learners, whether beginners or experienced professionals, can achieve a recognised qualification while gaining the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in entrepreneurship and business management.