Unlocking Entrepreneurial Potential: How Older EMBA Graduates Are Shaping Startups

The Rise of Older EMBA Graduates in Entrepreneurship

According to the 2024 FT EMBA Ranking, there is a noticeable increase in the number of Executive MBA (EMBA) graduates venturing into entrepreneurship, particularly among those aged 40 and older.

• 29% of alumni aged 30 or younger launched startups within three years post-graduation.
• This figure jumps to one-third for those in their late 40s and exceeds 40% for graduates aged 54 or older.

This trend highlights the growing importance of mature entrepreneurs who often have better access to contacts, capital, and experience. The data reflects broader statistics emphasizing the advantages of older founders in the startup landscape.

EMBA Graduate Statistics

The share of all participating EMBA alumni who started their own businesses rose from 25% in 2016 to 29% this year, just shy of the 30% peak recorded in 2023. The average age of these startup founders has also increased, now standing at just over 43 years old, compared to 41 in 2016.

Top Business Schools and Alumni Success

The China Europe International Business School (Ceibs) in Shanghai topped the FT ranking for the first time. This achievement comes despite challenges such as China’s economic slowdown and geopolitical tensions. The school’s success can be attributed to its high average alumni salaries, which reach nearly $537,000 after adjusting for purchasing power parity.

Salary Trends Post-EMBA

Despite these positive trends, the average salaries of EMBA alumni have seen a decline. For those over 40, earnings decreased from a peak of $240,000 in 2018 to $210,000 this year, adjusted for inflation.

• Healthcare professionals lead in salary, followed by those in financial services and technology sectors.

Growing Interest in EMBAs

Interest in the EMBA remains strong among middle and senior managers, contrasting with the stagnation in full-time MBA programs. The Executive MBA Council (EMBAC) reports steady demand, with minor increases in new programs and cohort sizes.

Tuition Costs and Employer Contributions

Tuition costs for EMBA programs have risen slightly from $94,000 to $95,000 in 2024. Notably, 55% of students reported that their employers made no contribution towards these costs.

Gender and Diversity in Business Schools

Among the top 100 global business schools, only two achieved gender parity in faculty. The Wharton School ranked highest for academic research output, while IE Business School led in integrating environmental, social, and governance topics into its curriculum.

This evolving landscape of EMBA graduates as entrepreneurs showcases a significant shift towards older individuals taking the plunge into the startup world, leveraging their extensive experience and networks to fuel innovation.