ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Startups
The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Startups is a comprehensive three-year programme designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge, practical skills, and strategic mindset required to launch, manage, and grow successful businesses. Covering 360 credits, this diploma offers a structured pathway for learners to explore all aspects of entrepreneurship, from idea generation and business planning to financing, operations, and innovation.
Learners will gain a deep understanding of business models, market research, risk management, and digital entrepreneurship, preparing them to navigate today’s dynamic business environment with confidence. The programme emphasises practical learning, allowing learners to apply theoretical insights through case studies, projects, and real-world business simulations.
This course is particularly valuable for individuals seeking to establish their own ventures, lead startup teams, or innovate within existing organisations. With a strong focus on critical thinking, leadership, and strategic decision-making, learners will develop the professional competence needed to identify opportunities, overcome challenges, and drive sustainable growth.
Throughout the programme, learners will also explore financial management, marketing strategies, legal and ethical considerations, and technological innovations that impact modern entrepreneurship. By the end of the course, learners will be equipped to create actionable business plans, implement innovative strategies, and manage resources effectively in a competitive global market.
The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Startups offers a unique blend of academic rigour and industry relevance, making it an ideal choice for fresh learners aiming to enter the entrepreneurial world and for professionals seeking to enhance their business acumen and leadership capabilities.
Level 6 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Startups
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Startups, learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Startups, consists of 36 mandatory units.
Year 1 – Foundation in Entrepreneurship & Startups
- Introduction to Entrepreneurship
- Business Environment and Market Analysis
- Principles of Management and Leadership
- Fundamentals of Finance for Startups
- Marketing and Brand Development
- Business Communication and Negotiation Skills
- Organisational Behaviour and Culture
- Introduction to Business Law and Ethics
- Digital Tools and Technology in Business
- Creative Thinking and Innovation
- Research Methods for Business
- Professional Ethics and Corporate Responsibility Accounting
Year 2 – Intermediate Entrepreneurship & Startups
- Strategic Business Planning
- Financial Management and Investment Analysis
- Operations and Supply Chain Management
- Human Resource Management in Startups
- Advanced Marketing and Sales Strategies
- Risk Management and Legal Compliance
- Leadership and Team Development
- Product Development and Innovation Management
- Business Analytics and Decision-Making
- Entrepreneurship in International Markets
- Project Management for Startups
- Professional Development and Reflective Practice
Year 3 – Advanced Entrepreneurship & Startups
- Venture Creation and Business Model Design
- Fundraising and Venture Capital Strategies
- Strategic Growth and Scaling Techniques
- Innovation and Technology Management
- Global Entrepreneurship and Trade
- Advanced Leadership and Organisational Change
- Corporate Governance and Compliance in Startups
- Strategic Marketing and Customer Experience
- Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship
- Advanced Financial Planning and Control
- Research and Evidence-Based Business Practice
- Capstone Project in Entrepreneurship & Startups
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Startups:
Year 1 – Foundation in Entrepreneurship & Startups
Introduction to Entrepreneurship
- Learners will understand the fundamental concepts of entrepreneurship.
- Identify characteristics and skills of successful entrepreneurs.
- Explore types of business ventures and startup ecosystems.
- Analyse opportunities for innovation and value creation.
Business Environment and Market Analysis
- Learners will examine macro and micro business environments.
- Conduct market research to identify trends and customer needs.
- Analyse competitors and market positioning strategies.
- Evaluate external factors impacting business success.
Principles of Management and Leadership
- Learners will develop foundational management skills.
- Understand leadership styles and organisational structures.
- Apply planning, organising, and decision-making techniques.
- Analyse team dynamics and effective leadership practices.
Fundamentals of Finance for Startups
- Learners will understand basic financial concepts and statements.
- Develop budgeting and cash flow management skills.
- Evaluate funding options and capital requirements.
- Analyse financial performance for informed business decisions.
Marketing and Brand Development
- Learners will explore marketing principles and strategies.
- Develop skills for creating brand identity and value propositions.
- Apply segmentation, targeting, and positioning techniques.
- Evaluate marketing campaigns for effectiveness and ROI.
Business Communication and Negotiation Skills
- Learners will enhance verbal, written, and digital communication.
- Develop negotiation and persuasion skills.
- Learn professional presentation techniques.
- Apply communication strategies in business contexts.
Organisational Behaviour and Culture
- Learners will analyse human behaviour in organisational settings.
- Understand culture, motivation, and employee engagement.
- Examine team dynamics and conflict resolution strategies.
- Apply organisational behaviour concepts to improve performance.
Introduction to Business Law and Ethics
- Learners will understand legal frameworks affecting businesses.
- Explore ethical decision-making and corporate social responsibility.
- Identify legal obligations and compliance requirements.
- Analyse real-world business scenarios for ethical considerations.
Digital Tools and Technology in Business
- Learners will utilise technology for business operations and communication.
- Explore digital platforms for marketing, sales, and management.
- Evaluate technology trends for business advantage.
- Implement digital solutions to enhance productivity.
Creative Thinking and Innovation
- Learners will develop problem-solving and creative thinking skills.
- Explore methods for generating innovative business ideas.
- Apply creativity to product and service development.
- Assess feasibility and impact of innovative solutions.
Research Methods for Business
- Learners will develop skills in research design and methodology.
- Collect, analyse, and interpret business data effectively.
- Apply research findings to support decision-making.
- Develop critical thinking for evaluating business evidence.
Professional Ethics and Corporate Responsibility
- Learners will understand ethical standards in entrepreneurship.
- Analyse corporate social responsibility practices.
- Apply ethical frameworks to business decision-making.
- Promote sustainability and responsible business conduct.
Year 2 – Intermediate Entrepreneurship & Startups
Strategic Business Planning
- Develop detailed business plans.
- Analyse market opportunities and trends.
- Define strategic goals and KPIs.
- Apply planning tools for business success.
Financial Management and Investment Analysis
- Perform advanced financial analysis.
- Evaluate investment options and risk.
- Develop strategies for profitability.
- Apply budgeting and forecasting techniques.
Operations and Supply Chain Management
- Manage operational workflows efficiently.
- Understand supply chain processes.
- Optimise resource allocation and inventory.
- Implement lean and agile operations practices.
Human Resource Management in Startups
- Manage recruitment and employee engagement.
- Develop performance appraisal and development plans.
- Promote diversity and workplace culture.
- Apply HR practices to support startup growth.
Advanced Marketing and Sales Strategies
- Design integrated marketing campaigns.
- Develop advanced sales techniques.
- Analyse consumer behaviour for targeted marketing.
- Measure marketing performance and ROI.
Risk Management and Legal Compliance
- Identify business risks and mitigation strategies.
- Ensure adherence to regulations and legal requirements.
- Develop operational and financial risk policies.
- Apply risk frameworks in real-world scenarios.
Leadership and Team Development
- Enhance leadership competencies.
- Build high-performing teams.
- Apply coaching, mentoring, and conflict resolution.
- Evaluate team performance for improvement.
Product Development and Innovation Management
- Manage product lifecycle from idea to launch.
- Implement innovation strategies for competitiveness.
- Evaluate market needs for product development.
- Apply project management techniques to product launches.
Business Analytics and Decision-Making
- Analyse data to support strategic decisions.
- Use analytical tools to interpret trends.
- Support data-driven decision-making.
- Apply insights to improve business outcomes.
Entrepreneurship in International Markets
- Explore global business opportunities.
- Analyse international trade and market entry.
- Understand cross-cultural business practices.
- Develop strategies for international expansion.
Project Management for Startups
- Plan, execute, and monitor projects effectively.
- Apply project management tools and methods.
- Manage budgets, resources, and timelines.
- Evaluate project outcomes and deliverables.
Professional Development and Reflective Practice
- Apply reflective practice to career and business decisions.
- Enhance personal and professional growth.
- Reflect on skills and business experiences.
- Identify areas for continuous improvement.
Year 3 – Advanced Entrepreneurship & Startups
Venture Creation and Business Model Design
- Design scalable business models.
- Analyse market viability and revenue streams.
- Develop value propositions and positioning strategies.
- Apply business model innovation tools.
Fundraising and Venture Capital Strategies
- Explore funding sources and investor relations.
- Prepare pitch decks and investment proposals.
- Evaluate financing options for startups.
- Manage investor expectations effectively.
Strategic Growth and Scaling Techniques
- Implement strategies for business expansion.
- Analyse operational scalability.
- Manage resources for growth.
- Apply performance metrics to monitor scaling.
Innovation and Technology Management
- Integrate technology into operations.
- Explore emerging digital tools.
- Develop innovative solutions.
- Apply technology strategies to improve efficiency.
Global Entrepreneurship and Trade
- Understand international trade regulations.
- Analyse global market trends and opportunities.
- Develop cross-border business strategies.
- Apply knowledge for international business growth.
Advanced Leadership and Organisational Change
- Lead organisational change initiatives.
- Influence culture and transformation.
- Apply transformational leadership techniques.
- Evaluate leadership impact on business outcomes.
Corporate Governance and Compliance in Startups
- Implement governance frameworks.
- Ensure regulatory and ethical compliance.
- Develop internal policies for transparency.
- Analyse case studies for governance best practices.
Strategic Marketing and Customer Experience
- Design customer-centric marketing strategies.
- Enhance brand loyalty and satisfaction.
- Monitor marketing effectiveness with analytics.
- Implement integrated campaigns across channels.
Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship
- Develop sustainable business practices.
- Explore social responsibility initiatives.
- Analyse impact of entrepreneurship on communities.
- Apply sustainability principles in strategy.
Advanced Financial Planning and Control
- Manage complex financial operations.
- Develop budgeting and forecasting strategies.
- Analyse financial risks and mitigation plans.
- Apply tools for financial sustainability.
Research and Evidence-Based Business Practice
- Conduct applied business research.
- Analyse data for strategic decisions.
- Evaluate evidence to support innovation.
- Present findings professionally to stakeholders.
Capstone Project in Entrepreneurship & Startups
- Demonstrate mastery in entrepreneurship and venture management.
- Integrate knowledge from all study units.
- Design and implement a real-world business project.
- Apply critical thinking, research, and strategic skills.
Entrepreneurship and startups are at the heart of economic growth and innovation. This programme equips learners with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience required to launch, manage, and grow successful ventures. Graduates of this diploma can pursue a wide range of professional pathways in business creation, management, and consultancy. The following progression paths outline potential opportunities and roles learners can undertake after successful completion.
Entrepreneurial Venture Creation
- Launch and manage your own startup or small business.
- Develop scalable business models tailored to market needs.
- Apply innovative strategies to achieve competitive advantage.
- Evaluate business performance and adjust strategies for growth.
Business Development and Management
- Manage operations for existing businesses, including SMEs and growing enterprises.
- Lead teams, departments, or projects to optimise efficiency.
- Implement business strategies and operational improvements.
- Analyse market trends to inform growth and expansion decisions.
Strategic Marketing and Brand Management
- Develop and execute marketing campaigns for new and existing products.
- Manage brand positioning, digital marketing, and customer engagement.
- Analyse consumer behaviour to inform marketing decisions.
- Drive revenue growth through innovative promotional strategies.
Financial Planning and Investment Management
- Conduct financial planning, budgeting, and investment analysis for business ventures.
- Evaluate funding options, including venture capital and private investment.
- Apply risk assessment and cost-control strategies to ensure profitability.
- Provide consultancy for financial and operational decision-making.
Innovation and Technology Management
- Implement emerging technologies to improve business efficiency.
- Develop innovative products or services for competitive advantage.
- Apply digital tools for data-driven business decisions.
- Lead transformation initiatives and technology integration.
Consultancy and Advisory Roles
- Offer strategic advice to startups and SMEs on growth, operations, and innovation.
- Conduct market research and feasibility studies for new business initiatives.
- Support organisations with governance, compliance, and sustainability strategies.
- Deliver mentorship and training to aspiring entrepreneurs.
International Entrepreneurship
- Expand business operations into international markets.
- Develop strategies for cross-border trade and global partnerships.
- Navigate international regulations, cultural differences, and market dynamics.
- Lead projects with a global impact and create sustainable ventures.
To successfully deliver this internationally recognised programme, centres must meet specific operational, academic, and administrative standards. These requirements ensure high-quality learning outcomes and maintain the credibility of the ICTQual AB certification.
1. Facilities and Infrastructure
- The centre must provide well-equipped classrooms or learning spaces with adequate seating, lighting, and ventilation for theoretical and practical learning.
- Access to computers, high-speed internet, and relevant software or digital platforms for business simulations and research is required.
- Facilities should include areas for group work, presentations, and collaborative activities to support interactive learning.
- A library or digital resource repository with textbooks, journals, and online business resources must be available.
2. Academic and Administrative Staff
- Centres must employ qualified trainers with expertise in entrepreneurship, business management, finance, marketing, and innovation.
- Trainers should have practical business experience or academic qualifications relevant to the programme.
- Administrative staff must be capable of managing enrolments, assessment records, and learner progress efficiently.
- Continuous professional development for staff should be encouraged to maintain up-to-date knowledge in business and entrepreneurship.
3. Learning Management and Assessment
- The centre must implement a robust learning management system (LMS) to track attendance, assignment submission, and learner performance.
- Assessment procedures should include assignments, projects, presentations, and examinations aligned with programme learning outcomes.
- Mechanisms must be in place for feedback, learner support, and academic guidance throughout the programme.
- Centres should ensure the integrity and security of assessment materials and results.
4. Health, Safety, and Accessibility
- Centres must comply with all local health and safety regulations.
- Emergency procedures and first-aid facilities should be in place.
- Learning environments must be accessible to learners with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity.
- Data protection and privacy policies should be implemented to safeguard learner information.
5. Accreditation and Quality Assurance
- Centres must maintain active accreditation status with ICTQual AB.
- Regular internal audits and quality checks should be conducted to ensure continuous improvement.
- Centres should provide clear policies on complaints, appeals, and learner rights.
- Continuous monitoring of teaching, assessment, and administrative processes is required to maintain programme standards.
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This route is designed for learners who are new to Entrepreneurship & Startups and do not have prior professional experience in the sector..
- Admission: Learners enrol at an ICTQual AB approved centre to begin the three-year programme.
- Training:Learners complete structured training covering all 36 study units over three years, combining theoretical instruction, case studies, practical exercises, research-based tasks, and project work.
- Assessment: Learners complete assignments, research projects, presentations, and examinations aligned with the programme’s learning outcomes.
- Certification: Upon successful completion of all training and assessments, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Startups
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
This route is available for learners who already have relevant work experience in Entrepreneurship & Startups.
- Eligibility:Learners must provide evidence of at least six years of verified experience in entrepreneurship, business management, or startup operations.
- Assessment of Competence:Experienced learners may bypass full training and undergo structured assessments to demonstrate existing knowledge and skills.
- Evidence Submission: Documentation such as previous business ventures, roles, responsibilities, project achievements, or consultancy experience must be submitted to validate competence
- Knowledge and Understanding: Centres may conduct a skills gap analysis to identify any additional training required to meet programme outcomes.
- Certification: Once competence and experience are verified, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Entrepreneurship & Startups without completing the full three-year programme.
This dual-route approach ensures the programme is accessible to both fresh learners and experienced professionals while maintaining rigorous international standards.