Top 11 Business Owner Certifications

Certifications are important for business owners in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and skill in a particular area. They also show potential employers that the business owner has taken the time to gain specialized knowledge and experience in their field. This can give them an edge over other applicants when seeking employment opportunities. Certifications also provide recognition from industry organizations and peers, which can help to boost the business owner’s reputation and credibility. Finally, certifications can increase the business owner’s earning potential by allowing them to command higher salaries or to qualify for more lucrative positions.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Business Owners and explains how they can help business owners develop and advance their careers.

What are Business Owner Certifications?

Business owner certification is a program designed to help business owners become better equipped to handle the daily operations of their businesses. It is an educational program that provides business owners with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage their business. The certification program focuses on key areas such as marketing, financial management, human resources, and legal issues.

Business owner certification can help business owners in many ways. By providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of running a business, they can make more informed decisions that will lead to improved efficiency and profitability. Business owners who take part in this type of certification program will also be able to identify potential problems before they arise and develop effective strategies for addressing them. Additionally, having this level of knowledge and expertise can make it easier for business owners to negotiate contracts and deals with suppliers or customers. Ultimately, obtaining a business owner certification can provide a competitive edge in the marketplace by giving businesses the tools they need to succeed.

Pro Tip: When considering a business owner certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications for the program. Knowing what is expected of you will help ensure that you have a successful experience with the certification process.

Related: What does a Business Owner do?

Top 11 Business Owner Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Business Owners today.

1. Certified Business Owner (CBO)

Certified Business Owner (CBO) is a certification program that provides business owners with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully manage their business. It is designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners make better decisions, increase their profits, and grow their businesses.

The CBO program is offered by the National Association of Certified Business Owners (NACBO). The program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires different levels of commitment and time investment. The Basic level takes approximately 10-12 hours to complete; the Intermediate level takes approximately 20-30 hours; and the Advanced level takes approximately 40-50 hours.

To become a Certified Business Owner, applicants must first submit an application form and fee to NACBO. Once approved, applicants will receive access to online courses covering topics such as financial management, marketing strategies, customer service, legal issues, human resources management, and more. After completing each course module, applicants must pass an exam in order to receive certification at each level.

The cost for the CBO program varies depending on the level of certification sought. The Basic Level costs $99; the Intermediate Level costs $199; and the Advanced Level costs $299. There are also discounts available for groups or multiple certifications purchased at once.

2. Certified Professional Business Owner (CPBO)

Certified Professional Business Owner (CPBO) is a certification program offered by the Institute of Certified Professional Business Owners (ICPBO). The program is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of business owners in order to help them become more successful.

The CPBO certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as financial management, marketing, operations, human resources, legal issues, and strategic planning. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To apply for the CPBO certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience running a business or managing a business unit. They must also submit two letters of recommendation from current or former employers or colleagues who can attest to their professional qualifications.

The cost for the CPBO certification varies depending on the country in which you are applying. In the United States, it costs $495 USD for members of ICPBO and $595 USD for non-members.

3. Certified Small Business Owner (CSBO)

Certified Small Business Owner (CSBO) is a certification program created by the National Small Business Association (NSBA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of small business owners. The CSBO designation provides recognition for small business owners who demonstrate a commitment to professional development, ethical standards, and excellence in their field.

The certification process takes approximately two months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as a resume or CV, references, and proof of business ownership. Once approved, applicants must pass an online exam that covers topics such as finance, marketing, operations management, customer service, legal issues, and more.

The cost of the CSBO certification varies depending on the level of certification sought. The basic certification costs $99 while the advanced certification costs $199. Additionally there may be additional fees for materials or other services related to the exam.

Once certified, small business owners can use their CSBO designation to demonstrate their expertise in running a successful business and gain credibility with potential customers and partners. The CSBO also provides access to exclusive resources such as webinars and discounts on products and services from NSBA partners.

4. Certified Entrepreneurial Leadership Program (CELP)

The Certified Entrepreneurial Leadership Program (CELP) is a comprehensive program designed to provide entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge they need to become successful business owners. The program focuses on developing an entrepreneurial mindset, understanding the fundamentals of business, and learning how to apply these principles in practical ways.

The program takes approximately six months to complete and consists of four modules: Introduction to Entrepreneurship, Business Planning & Strategy, Financial Management & Accounting, and Marketing & Sales. Each module includes lectures, case studies, group discussions, and hands-on activities that help participants develop their own unique business strategies.

To get Certified Entrepreneurial Leadership Program (CELP), you must first complete all four modules with a passing grade. Once you have completed the coursework, you must submit your application for certification along with the required fees. The cost of the program varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD.

Once your application has been approved by the CELP board of directors, you will receive an official certificate of completion which is valid for one year. After this period has passed, you may renew your certification by completing additional courses or attending refresher workshops.

5. Certified Business Planning Professional (CBPP)

Certified Business Planning Professional (CBPP) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Certified Business Planning Professionals (ICBPP). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop, implement, and manage successful business plans. The certification is based on a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as business strategy, financial planning, marketing and sales, operations management, and project management.

The CBPP certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course takes approximately 10 hours to complete and covers the core concepts of business planning. After completing the course, candidates must pass a proctored exam at an ICBPP-approved testing center. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of the CBPP curriculum.

The cost of becoming a CBPP varies depending on the country or region you are located in. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD for the online course and $250 USD for the proctored exam.

In order to become a Certified Business Planning Professional (CBPP), you must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least three years of relevant work experience in business planning or related fields. Additionally, candidates must have completed at least one year of college education or equivalent training in business administration or related fields.

Overall, it typically takes about six months from start to finish to become a CBPP depending on how quickly you can complete the online course and take the proctored exam.

6. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a certification program offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). The CBAP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in business analysis. It is the highest level of professional recognition available for business analysts.

To qualify for the CBAP certification, applicants must meet certain criteria including having a minimum of 7500 hours of professional experience in business analysis activities over the past 10 years, as well as 35 hours of formal education in business analysis topics.

The application process includes submitting your resume and work history to IIBA, along with two references from colleagues or clients. Once your application has been approved, you will be eligible to take the exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

The cost to apply for the CBAP certification is $125 for IIBA members and $325 for non-members. The cost of taking the exam is $325 for both members and non-members.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your official CBAP certificate within 6-8 weeks after passing the exam. You will also receive an official digital badge that can be displayed on your website or social media profiles.

7. Certified Management Consultant (CMC)

A Certified Management Consultant (CMC) is a professional designation awarded by the Institute of Management Consultants USA (IMC USA). The CMC designation is the highest standard of excellence for management consultants and signifies that a consultant has achieved an exceptional level of knowledge, experience, and ethical practice in the field.

To qualify for the CMC designation, applicants must meet certain educational, work experience, and ethical standards. Applicants must have at least five years of professional consulting experience as well as a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. They must also pass an exam administered by IMC USA and adhere to a strict code of ethics.

The process to become a CMC typically takes between six months to one year. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application form to IMC USA along with their resume and supporting documentation. Once their application is approved, they will be required to take the CMC exam which consists of two parts—a written test and an oral presentation. Once both parts are successfully completed, applicants will be awarded the CMC designation.

The cost for becoming a CMC varies depending on whether you are an IMC USA member or non-member. For members, it costs $1,500 plus applicable taxes while non-members pay $2,000 plus applicable taxes.

8. Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is a professional designation awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. to those who have met certain educational, experience and ethical requirements. CFPs are qualified to provide financial planning services such as retirement planning, investment advice, estate planning, tax planning, and insurance analysis.

In order to become a CFP, an individual must complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; pass the CFP certification examination; complete a minimum of 6,000 hours of qualifying work experience in financial planning-related activities; and agree to abide by the CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility.

The CFP certification process typically takes between 18 months and three years depending on the individual's background and prior experience. The first step is to complete the required coursework through an accredited program that meets the standards set by the CFP Board. Once this is completed, individuals can then take the CFP Certification Examination which consists of two parts: a multiple choice section and an essay section.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $695-$795 USD. In addition to exam fees there may be other costs associated with becoming a CFP such as membership dues for professional organizations or fees for continuing education courses.

9. Accredited Business Valuation Analyst (ABVA)

Accredited Business Valuation Analyst (ABVA) is a professional credential awarded by the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA). The ABVA credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in business valuation, analysis, and consulting.

It takes approximately six months to complete the requirements for the ABVA credential. To become an ABVA, applicants must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as financial statement analysis, economic concepts, business valuation methods, and more. Once the exam has been passed, applicants must then submit a portfolio of work demonstrating their knowledge and experience in business valuation. This portfolio should include documents such as reports on completed valuations, case studies, and other relevant materials.

Once the portfolio has been reviewed and approved by NACVA, applicants will be awarded the ABVA credential. The cost of obtaining the ABVA credential varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of NACVA. For non-members, it costs $1,495 USD to obtain the ABVA designation; for members it costs $995 USD.

10. International Association of Small Business Owners Certification Program

The International Association of Small Business Owners (IASBO) Certification Program is a professional certification program designed to help small business owners develop the skills and knowledge necessary to run their businesses successfully. The program provides participants with an understanding of the fundamentals of business management, including accounting, finance, marketing, and operations.

The IASBO Certification Program consists of four levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Professional. Each level requires completion of a series of courses that cover topics such as financial planning, marketing strategies, and customer service. Participants must also pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The amount of time it takes to complete the program depends on the level chosen. The Basic level can be completed in as little as 4 months while the Professional level can take up to 12 months.

To get certified through IASBO’s program you must first register online at their website and pay the registration fee. You will then be able to access all course materials and exams needed for your chosen level. Once you have completed all course requirements and passed the exam you will receive your certificate from IASBO.

The cost for IASBO’s Certification Program varies depending on which level you choose. The Basic level costs $299 USD while the Professional level costs $999 USD.

11. Professional Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership

A Professional Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership is a program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to become successful leaders in their organizations. It typically consists of courses that focus on topics such as strategic planning, organizational development, team building, decision making, communication, and change management. The program may also include case studies and simulations to help students gain practical experience.

The length of the program can vary depending on the type of certificate you are pursuing. Some programs may be completed in as little as six months while others may take up to two years or more.

To get a Professional Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership, you will need to complete an accredited program offered by a college or university. You can find these programs online or at local colleges and universities. Once you have completed the coursework, you will need to pass an exam administered by the school in order to receive your certificate.

The cost of a Professional Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership can vary depending on the institution offering it, but generally ranges from $2,000-$5,000 USD for the entire program.

Do You Really Need a Business Owner Certificate?

When it comes to starting and running a business, having the right qualifications and certifications is important. A business owner certificate may seem like an unnecessary requirement, but in some cases, it can be a valuable asset.

A business owner certificate demonstrates that you understand the fundamentals of running a business. This includes topics such as taxes, legal requirements, marketing, finance and more. It also shows that you have taken the time to learn about the intricacies of operating a successful business. Having this knowledge can help you make better decisions when it comes to managing your venture.

In addition, having a business owner certificate can help attract potential investors or customers. It’s a sign of commitment and dedication to your venture that can boost confidence in your abilities as an entrepreneur. Moreover, having this certification can open up opportunities for further education or networking with other entrepreneurs who share similar goals and interests.

Ultimately, whether you need a business owner certificate depends on your particular situation. If you are just starting out or considering taking on additional roles within the company then it could be beneficial for you to get certified in order to gain greater insight into how businesses operate and how to best manage them. However, if you already have experience in running businesses then this may not be necessary for you at this stage in your career.

Related: Business Owner Resume Examples

FAQs About Business Owner Certifications

Q1. What is a business owner certification?

A1. A business owner certification is an official recognition that you have achieved a certain level of knowledge, skills, and experience in running a business. It is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed relevant courses or assessments related to the field of business ownership.

Q2. How do I obtain a business owner certification?

A2. The process for obtaining a business owner certification will vary depending on the organization offering the certification and the type of course or assessment you need to complete. Generally speaking, you will need to take courses or pass exams in areas such as finance, marketing, operations, and human resources management in order to qualify for the certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of having a business owner certification?

A3. Having a business owner certification demonstrates to potential employers and customers that you possess the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully run a business. Additionally, it can provide credibility when applying for loans or grants from financial institutions and government organizations as well as providing opportunities for networking with other professionals in your field.

Q4. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a business owner certification?

A4: Depending on the type of certification you are seeking, there may be specific prerequisites such as having prior experience running a business or completing certain courses related to the field of study before being eligible for the certificate program. It is important to research each program carefully before beginning any application process in order to ensure that all requirements are met prior to enrollment.

Q5: How long does it take to get certified as a business owner?

A5: The amount of time it takes varies depending on factors such as how much material needs to be studied and how quickly you can complete required coursework or exams associated with the program. Generally speaking, most programs require several months up to one year of study before awarding the certificate upon successful completion of all requirements.