Top Business Schools For Entrepreneurs

A look at what three business schools – in the USA, the UK and Spain – can offer budding entrepreneurs

Stanford is probably the first name that comes to mind when you think about top business schools for entrepreneurs. Its location in the heart of Silicon Valley, alongside Stanford’s famous computer engineering faculty, means you’re more than likely to rub shoulders with the dotcom successes of the future here.

Spain’s IE Business School has built a reputation as a meeting point for VCs and start-ups in Europe. It runs the multi-school International Center for Entrepreneurship and Ventures Development, and also offers its students a twice yearly opportunity to present to investors for real money, Dragon’s Den style.

In the UK, Lancaster is consistently rated one of the top schools for entrepreneurship, and is renowned for its focus on commercializing ideas coming out of Lancaster University’s science and technology faculties.

Stanford Graduate School of Business, California, USA
Business school in Silicon Valley

The Stanford Graduate School of Business has offered entrepreneurship classes as far back as the 50’s. Its Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, which started in 1996, offers 22 specialised courses have been developed.

Approximately six to -10 per cent of 389full-time MBA students indicate they are starting a new venture on graduation. Anecdotally, another wave of alumni entrepreneurs emerge two to five years out of business school, though it’s difficult to get a handle on the exact figure.

Stanford’s outstanding academic program is itself a tool to evaluate and grow your business ideas. Class projects for courses from decisions to market research can feed into business plans. In the two-quarter class “Evaluating Business Opportunities”, teams of students work on a business idea with a faculty advisor and industry mentor.

“The final product is, at minimum, a business plan and pitch, but more frequently a launch-ready product prototype,’ says Linda Wells, Executive Director of the School’s Center for Entrepreneurial Studies.

Stanford GSB “does not fund start-ups”, says Wells, other than $1500 available to each team in the class “Evaluating Business Ideas” (S356). It doesn’t need to, with Silicon Valley’s venture capitalists on its doorstep. Successful entrepreneurs and investors co-teach the majority of entrepreneurship classes – your case study is right there to present the case, lead the discussion and debrief you afterwards on what happened behind the scenes.

“A typical GSB student interested in entrepreneurship will have exposure to well over 60 entrepreneurs during their MBA,” says Wells.

Aside from that, the School has a very active, well-connected student Entrepreneur Club that organizes meet-ups throughout the year and the Executive Dean of the School has a hotline to the investor and entrepreneur community and can refer students seeking mentoring, funding and legal advice.

IE Business School, Madrid, Spain
Several scholarships and a twice-yearly opportunity to pitch to investors

IE Business School was founded by entrepreneurs and started offering specialised programs for in 1983. Each year, about 35 entrepreneurs join the International MBA program, out of a total of 300 to 400 students.

On graduation, roughly 10 per cent of the class consider themselves entrepreneurs. Five years after graduation, approximately 25 per cent of IMBA graduates are “involved in entrepreneurial activities”.

Students on the IMBA program team up to design business plans with the help of more than 200 external tutors from the business world. The business teams can submit their plans to the School’s highly selective Venture Lab, which sends a high quality start-up deal flow to a global network of investors.

The Venture Lab culminates in the twice yearly Venture Day, a day in which the top five business plans present to investors and build relationships that can eventually lead to successful funding. Two student-run companies received VC funding as a result of the last Venture Lab. Winning companies also get a further two years of intensive support on all fronts from IE Business School’s Venture Academy.

IE Business School’s recent entrepreneurial successes include: Jose Maria Castillejo, founder of animation company Zinkia; Drury MacKenzie, founder of clean energy solutions firm RenewEn; scientist Damia Tormo, who started BioOncoTech, specializing in melanoma research, after a Master in Biotech Management; and Gonzalo Castellano Benlloch and Philipp Hasskamp, who founded discount website CityDeal, which was acquired by Groupon last year to become www.Groupon.es

There are several scholarships on offer for current or would-be entrepreneurs, including: scholarships for China-based entrepreneurs; Venture Lab Fellowships for students with a proven entrepreneurial track record; ieCommunities Fellowships for Though Leaders for entrepreneurs on a blended learning program; New Age Entrepreneurship Scholarships for Master in Management candidates; Future Leaders of Spanish Enterprise Scholarships for entrepreneurs in Spain; and the Scholarship for The Entrepreneurial Architect for candidates for the Master in Architectural Management and Design course. See the IE Business School website for specific entry criteria.

Lancaster University Management School, Lancaster, UK
Helps existing entrepreneurs grow their firms

Lancaster has been offering programmes for entrepreneurs since 1999. Notable entrepreneur alums of the School include Nahed Taher, one of the FT’s 50 most powerful women in business and founder of Gulf One Investment Bank, and Gian Fulgoni, founder of internet research firm ComScore.

The Institute for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development, established in 2003, works with real-life businesses in its three key activities of entrepreneurial research, education and enterprise support.

The LEAD Programme is designed for owner-managers of small to medium sized businesses. LEAD brings together a group of owner-managers for peer-to-peer learning on how to increase profitability, diversify and grow their business.

The Institute has both an Entrepreneur in Residence and a recently appointed Innovator in Residence, Mike Parsons, who built the outdoor brand Karrimor as a major international brand through to 1996 and was responsible for a number of iconic innovations there.

On the MBA programme, a small number of students each year have already successfully run their own businesses. A number of others hope the MBA will lead them to entrepreneurship, in some cases following a few more years of experience in large organisations.

In the first term of the full-time programme, all 85 students work on the New Venture Challenge to produce a business plan for an early stage company. The classroom teaching employs case studies and entrepreneurs in the classroom “to ground the theory in practice”, says Dr Frank Cave, who leads this module. The students also have to defend their ideas in front of a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style panel.

In 2010 the Lancaster MBA team’s business plan for Gaea Naturals, a water purification technology, made it to the semi finals of the prestigious Rice business plan competition.

Aspiring entrepreneurs in the MBA programme can also use the final project to develop their own business concept under faculty supervision.

Best Business Schools

Student Reviews

IE Business School

Student

Verified

8/11/2023

On Campus

My Review

Madrid Is incredible, I've had a fantastic time at IE University. I've had some excellent lecturers overall. They sincerely want the students to flourish and are concerned about developing a personal relationship with them. Having said that, students typically must fulfil their half of the contract by putting in the necessary work and demonstrating a desire to achieve success.

Student

Verified

6/11/2023

On Campus

Coming Master

I spent 1 semester on my Erasmus during my BBA trip. This was the great experience and after that I decode to enroll for the master program there. I must say that the only disappointing fact is connected to distribution of the students. Master students are being connected to the old campus what is not fully fail.

Student

Verified

6/11/2023

On Campus

Former BBA

As the former BBA student I can say that the level of the learning is quite high. In addition the place (IE Tower) is probably one of the most innovative and networking-support place in the Europe. I totally recoupment this Uni for business students.

Rebecca

Verified

5/11/2023

On Campus

International focus

IE university has a global perspective and attracts a highly diverse student body, with students from all over the world. This international environment fosters cross-cultural understanding and prepares students to work in a globalized world. This is same for the faculty members as well, the university's faculty members are from diverse parts of the world and are reputable. they are not only experts in their fields but are also often actively engaged in research and industry. Their practical experience and academic expertise create a stimulating learning environment.

Milena

Verified

31/10/2023

On Campus

Loved it

IE University, in my experience as a student, stands out as an outstanding institution for higher education. Its international perspective is a major strength, evident in the diverse student body that represents a multitude of countries and cultures. Interacting with such a global community has broadened my horizons and deepened my understanding of various subjects, providing a rich and comprehensive educational experience. The quality of the faculty at IE University is exceptional. Many professors bring real-world experience to the classroom, making the learning process more practical and relevant. This approach not only enhances engagement with coursework but also ensures that students are well-prepared for their future careers. The accessibility of professors and their willingness to engage with students personally fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment. Practical learning is another significant advantage at IE University. The integration of real-world projects, internships, and case studies bridges the gap between theory and practice. This emphasis on hands-on experience equips students with practical skills and industry insights, making them more competitive in the job market. IE University offers a wide range of programs across various fields of study, making it a versatile choice for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. This diversity ensures that individuals can find a program that aligns with their academic and career interests. However, like any institution, IE University has its challenges. The cost of attending can be a major concern for some students, as tuition fees are relatively high. While scholarships and financial aid are available, not all students may qualify for them. This financial aspect is an important consideration, particularly for those with budget limitations. The competitive nature of some courses and programs can create a high-pressure environment. While competition can be motivating for some, it may also lead to stress for others. Maintaining high academic standards can be demanding, and students should strive for a balance between excellence and well-being. The workload can be quite challenging, especially for students undertaking double degrees or heavily involved in extracurricular activities. Effective time management is essential to manage academic demands while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In conclusion, I would recommend IE University to prospective students with specific considerations. If you value an international perspective, practical learning, and a diverse educational environment, IE University is an excellent choice. However, it's crucial to carefully weigh the tuition costs against the benefits and to be prepared for the competitive nature of some courses. Students should also be ready to handle a demanding workload. IE University has provided me with a rich and globally-focused education, equipping me for a career in an interconnected world. Ultimately, it's important to make an informed decision based on your educational and financial goals, along with a willingness to confront the challenges that may arise.

Jose

Verified

26/10/2023

On Campus

Rather Exciting

As a student at IE University, enrolled in the Business Administration program, I can confidently say that my experience at this institution has been overwhelmingly positive. IE University's innovative approach to education stands out as one of its most remarkable features. The interactive classes and focus on critical thinking, particularly through the use of case studies, have significantly enhanced my ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world business scenarios. Additionally, the global perspective at IE University, fostered by the diverse student body and international faculty, has broadened my understanding of global business practices, which is crucial in the field of Business Administration. The university's strong industry connections have proven to be invaluable. These connections provide students with numerous internship opportunities and networking prospects, allowing us to gain practical experience and build professional relationships while still studying. Moreover, the comprehensive career support services offered by IE University, such as resume building, interview preparation, and job placement assistance, have been instrumental in preparing us for the job market. On the flip side, it's important to mention that tuition costs at IE University can be relatively high, which may pose a financial challenge for some students, even though there are scholarships and financial aid options available. Additionally, the programs at IE University can be intensive, demanding a significant time commitment, which might not align with everyone's preferences. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend IE University to individuals considering a degree in Business Administration. The innovative teaching methods, global perspective, strong industry connections, and comprehensive career support make it an excellent choice for those aspiring to enter the world of business. However, prospective students should be aware of the financial considerations and be prepared for the intensive nature of the programs. If you're willing to invest in your education and are dedicated to your studies, IE University offers an exceptional and enriching educational experience in the field of Business Administration.

Tatiana

Verified

22/10/2023

On Campus

A Decent Experience

I've had the privilege of being a student at IE University, where I've been pursuing a degree in arts. My experience at IE University has been highly rewarding and unique. One of the aspects I appreciate the most is the university's strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. The opportunity to collaborate with students from diverse fields, including business, technology, and social sciences, has enriched my artistic endeavors. This cross-pollination of ideas has added depth and diversity to my creative work. IE University's international perspective is another significant advantage. The institution's diverse student body and faculty from various corners of the world have broadened my artistic horizons and encouraged me to think more globally. In the field of arts, where cultural influences play a pivotal role, this global outlook has been invaluable. The university also invests in modern resources and technology, providing students with access to cutting-edge software, creative tools, and state-of-the-art facilities. These resources have allowed me to explore new mediums and techniques, pushing the boundaries of my creativity. Furthermore, IE University places a strong emphasis on practical experiences. This practical orientation has given me insights into the professional art world and how to navigate it effectively. Opportunities for internships and collaborations with art institutions have been instrumental in bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application. On the downside, tuition costs at IE University can be relatively high, which may pose a financial challenge for some prospective students. Additionally, the university's programs are quite intensive, demanding a substantial time commitment and strong time management skills. In conclusion, I would wholeheartedly recommend IE University to students seeking an arts education with an interdisciplinary and global perspective. The institution's innovative resources, practical experiences, and international approach have significantly enriched my artistic journey. Nevertheless, it's crucial to consider the financial aspect and be prepared for the demanding nature of the programs. If you're willing to invest in your arts education and are committed to hard work, IE University offers a truly unique and rewarding artistic experience.

Juan

Verified

18/10/2023

On Campus

A Great Experience

As a student at IE University studying architecture, I have a unique perspective on the institution. Let me share my thoughts on this university: Overall, my experience at IE University has been quite positive. The university's commitment to a holistic education, combined with its innovative approach to learning, has made my time here rewarding. Here are some key aspects I appreciate: Interdisciplinary Approach: IE University places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. In the field of architecture, this means I've had the opportunity to collaborate with students from various backgrounds, such as engineering, business, and design. It's been enlightening to work on projects that integrate different disciplines, mirroring the real-world scenarios architects often find themselves in. Faculty and Industry Connections: The professors at IE University are experienced professionals in their respective fields, and they bring a wealth of practical knowledge into the classroom. This has greatly enriched my architectural education. Additionally, the university's strong connections with industry professionals and firms provide students with valuable networking opportunities and potential internships. Global Perspective: IE University's international approach to education is a significant advantage. I've had the chance to collaborate with students from all over the world, which has broadened my cultural awareness and global perspective. This is particularly important in architecture, as it's a field where global influences and trends play a significant role. Innovation and Technology: The university's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements is impressive. In architecture, this means access to cutting-edge software, tools, and resources, which have been instrumental in my academic and design work. On the flip side, there are a few aspects that might not suit everyone: Tuition Costs: IE University is a private institution, and as such, tuition can be on the higher side. This might be a challenge for some students, but there are scholarship opportunities and financial aid options available. Intensive Programs: The university's programs are often quite intensive, requiring a significant time commitment. While this can be beneficial for learning, it can also be demanding, so time management skills are crucial. In conclusion, I would certainly recommend IE University to those interested in studying architecture. Its unique approach to education, international perspective, and strong industry connections have enriched my architectural journey. Just keep in mind the financial considerations and be prepared to put in the effort, and you'll find a stimulating and rewarding academic experience at IE University.

Student

Verified

16/09/2023

On Campus

A Global and Innovative Learning Experience

IE University is a dynamic and innovative institution that has gained recognition for its unique approach to education. There are several aspects that make it stand out, and while it may not be the perfect fit for everyone, it certainly has a lot to offer. One of the notable strengths of IE University is its commitment to fostering a global perspective. The university attracts a diverse student body from all over the world, creating a rich multicultural environment. This diversity enriches the classroom experience and prepares students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. The emphasis on international exposure through study abroad programs, exchange partnerships, and a global network of alumni further enhances this global outlook. IE University is also known for its focus on entrepreneurship and innovation. The institution places a strong emphasis on practical, real-world learning experiences that encourage students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset. This approach aligns well with the demands of the modern job market, where creativity and adaptability are highly valued. Furthermore, IE University's faculty is often comprised of professionals with extensive industry experience, providing students with valuable insights and connections in their respective fields. The small class sizes enable more personalized attention, fostering a close-knit community and facilitating meaningful interactions between students and professors. However, no university is without its drawbacks, and IE University is no exception. One potential downside is the cost of tuition, which can be relatively high compared to some public institutions. While scholarships and financial aid options are available, this cost may still be a barrier for some prospective students. Another consideration is the intensity of the academic programs. IE University is known for its rigorous curriculum, and students often find themselves facing a demanding workload. While this can be an advantage for those who thrive in a challenging environment, it may not be suitable for individuals seeking a more relaxed college experience. In conclusion, IE University is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a globally oriented, innovative, and academically rigorous education. Its emphasis on entrepreneurship, international exposure, and practical learning experiences can prepare students for success in a competitive job market. However, the high cost of tuition and the demanding nature of the programs should be carefully considered. Ultimately, whether IE University is the right fit depends on the individual's goals and preferences, but for those who are up to the challenge, it can be a rewarding and transformative educational experience.

Paula

Verified

9/01/2024

On Campus

The liquid learning method

I do like my program so much, since it gives me the possibility to develop my own personal skills while building a strong professional cv with plenty of extracurricular material. The amenities are extraordinary and the campus is super professional and convenient for networking!

Student

Verified

17/09/2024

On Campus

The variety of courses

This university has provided me with the perfect university experience, complete with numerous resources that help students reach their goals. The beauty of this university is the variety of courses offered, and how the diverse nature of courses can prepare you for the real world.

Dmytro

Verified

22/10/2024

Online

High quality

The course has high-quality content, lessons, and educational materials. Everything is precise, concise, and well-explained so that this part can stay the same. It effectively provides full fundamental knowledge on the subject and suggests how to learn each concrete subtopic of digital marketing further. So, at the end of the course, I understood all the topics and substantially improved my skills in cooperation with marketing departments. The course also showed me approaches and tools to execute digital marketing so I can do the job myself. As for improvements, it would be nice to work on the part dealing with tasks and developing individual projects. I felt like I needed more time for that. Doing homework and projects is essential for effective learning, but more time was required, harming the quality. Practice and individual projects should have more time and interactions between the students and the professor or learning facilitators. The course provided such opportunities for interaction, but doing the projects in a rush made it impossible to be prepared with questions for those meetings. Also, the more time students spend on practical tasks, the more they will remember. So, it would be great to extend the timing of the practice part.