Competence Framework for Entrepreneurial Competences

Entrepreneurial Competences – Skills for the Future

Successful entrepreneurial activity results from the interplay of expertise, practical experience, and an entrepreneurial mindset. To overcome challenges and identify opportunities, the following competences are essential:

• ‍Opportunity Identification & Evaluation
  The ability to recognize market opportunities, critically question them, and realistically assess their potential.‍
• Strategic Planning & Vision
  Forward-looking planning and the development and communication of a clear vision for the sustainable direction of projects and businesses.‍
• Risk Management & Tolerance
  A constructive approach to dealing with uncertainties and the willingness to take calculated risks.‍
• Financial Literacy & Management
  A basic understanding of financial interrelationships and the ability to manage business finances in a targeted manner.‍
• Innovative Thinking & Creativity
  Creative thinking to develop new approaches, products, and services.‍
• Leadership & Team Management
  Leadership skills and the ability to effectively build, motivate, and lead teams.
• ‍Communication & Negotiation
  Clarity in communication and strategic negotiation skills – both internally and externally.

Certification of Entrepreneurial Competences
To make these skills transparent and traceable, ZHAW uses micro-credentials: they document specific competences in clearly defined areas, are flexible, digitally accessible, and adapt to the dynamic demands of the labor market.

Objective of the Competence Framework
The competence framework for Entrepreneurial Competences is designed to make both theoretically and practically acquired skills visible – even across disciplinary boundaries. In addition to technical skills, the focus is primarily on the entrepreneurial mindset. It reflects ZHAW’s mission as an Entrepreneurial University and promotes self-responsible, innovative thinking.

A certificate developed as part of a pilot project by ZHAW entrepreneurship forms the foundation for the introduction of micro-credentials at the university. This not only strengthens entrepreneurial competences but also officially recognizes and validates them.

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