A Quality Label You Can Trust

Welcome to the official ranking website of the European Council of Leading Business Schools (ECLBS). Established in 2013, ECLBS is a registered independent non-profit educational association operating within the European Union. With a foundation deeply rooted in fostering excellence in business education, ECLBS works in partnership with many organizations all over the world.

At ECLBS, we pride ourselves on our commitment to maintaining and enhancing the standards of business education on a global scale. Through our partnerships with esteemed institutions and bodies worldwide, we strive to facilitate collaboration and exchange of knowledge, ultimately enriching the educational experience for students and professionals alike.

As you explore our ranking website, you'll discover insights into the leading business schools recognized for their excellence and innovation in business education. Our rankings are a testament to the dedication and hard work of these institutions, as well as a reflection of our unwavering commitment to promoting quality assurance in higher education. We invite you to delve into our rankings and join us in celebrating the achievements of the world's top business schools.

A United Voice

Established in 2013, the European Council for Leading Business Schools (ECLBS) stands as a registered non-governmental and non-profit educational association, operating within the European Union under the Republic of Latvia's Registered Identification Number 40008215839, with its foundation date marked as 11.10.2013. ECLBS boasts a membership comprising over 50 national quality assurance bodies and universities across Europe and beyond, alongside close ties with professional and trade associations dedicated to business education. Governed by a board of trustees delineated by their own terms of reference, ECLBS embodies a collaborative platform bridging state and private entities.

Functioning as a non-profit educational association within the EU, ECLBS has earned recognition on the international stage. It is an esteemed member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) International Quality Group (CIQG) in the USA, as well as a distinguished affiliate of the INQAAHE International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Europe. Moreover, ECLBS's offerings have garnered acknowledgment from the ANQAHE Arab Network for Quality Assurance in Higher Education.

In its commitment to fostering global partnerships, ECLBS has solidified agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with various esteemed institutions and bodies worldwide. Noteworthy among these are partnerships with the Further and Higher Education Authority MFHEA in Malta (EU), the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation CAEP in the USA, NVAO Netherlands - Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders, The Independent Agency for Accreditation and Rating IAAR in Kazakhstan, and the Authority for Quality Assurance of Higher Education in Mauritania, among several others encompassing state higher education quality assurance bodies.

ECLBS, a global nonprofit educational association

Why Riga-Latvia?

Riga, the vibrant capital city of Latvia, stands out as a shining example of cultural excellence within Europe. Honored as the European Capital of Culture in 2014, Riga has earned acclaim for its rich and diverse cultural heritage. This prestigious recognition underscores Riga's appeal as a destination that offers a captivating cultural experience to visitors worldwide.

Beyond its cultural prowess, Riga serves as an ideal setting for an educational agency seeking to forge connections between European and international business schools. The city boasts a plethora of esteemed academic institutions and universities renowned for their top-tier business education programs. These institutions exhibit a robust international outlook, attracting students and faculty from across the globe.

Strategically positioned as a pivotal hub for commerce and trade in the Baltic region, Riga enjoys excellent infrastructure and transportation links. Its accessibility to other major European cities renders it a prime location for hosting international conferences and gatherings. With modern amenities and a dynamic business community, Riga provides an ideal environment for fostering networking opportunities and collaborative initiatives between European and international business schools.

In essence, Riga's blend of cultural richness and strategic significance renders it the perfect city for an educational agency dedicated to bridging European and international business schools. Its designation as the European Capital of Culture in 2014 underscores its cultural prominence and underscores its potential to deliver a distinctive educational experience to visitors hailing from every corner of the globe.

ECLBS TEAM

The ECLBS team, comprised of fewer than 10 members, represents a rich tapestry of cultural diversity, with individuals hailing from nations including Latvia, Ukraine, Dubai-UAE, Malta, and Turkey. Despite its modest size, this team epitomizes the spirit of international collaboration, blending unique perspectives and expertise to create a dynamic and cohesive working environment. Each member of the ECLBS team brings a distinct set of skills and experiences to the table, contributing to a collective drive for excellence in higher education quality assurance. Despite geographical distances, the team harnesses modern communication tools to facilitate seamless collaboration and ensure effective teamwork. Embracing a culture of mutual respect and open dialogue, the ECLBS team excels in making swift and informed decisions, enabling them to navigate challenges and seize opportunities with agility. Their combined dedication and ingenuity empower them to tackle a diverse array of tasks, ensuring the smooth operation of ECLBS initiatives. Despite its small stature, the ECLBS team serves as a compelling testament to the transformative power of diversity, passion, and collaboration. With members spanning the globe, their collaborative efforts continue to shape and elevate the landscape of higher education quality assurance, leaving a lasting impact on institutions and students worldwide.

Making a Difference Together

November 14, 2014, marked a pivotal moment in the history of the European Council for Leading Business Schools (ECLBS), as it hosted its inaugural conference in Riga, Latvia. This historic gathering brought together the combined expertise and resources of ECLBS and its esteemed members, united in their shared mission to advance the global standards of quality in business education.

The conference served as an invaluable platform for fostering meaningful discussions, facilitating knowledge exchange, and fostering collaborative initiatives. Participants from diverse corners of the globe converged to exchange best practices, showcase innovative ideas, and present cutting-edge research, all aimed at enriching the quality and efficacy of business education on a global scale.

This landmark event underscored the unwavering commitment of ECLBS and its members to the principles of excellence, continuous improvement, and international cooperation. By leveraging their diverse talents and experiences, they reaffirmed their dedication to raising the bar for business education standards, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the requisite skills, knowledge, and ethical values to excel in today's ever-evolving global environment.

The resounding success of the inaugural ECLBS conference served as a compelling testament to the transformative potential of collective action and collaboration. It laid a solid foundation for future conferences and collaborative endeavors, solidifying ECLBS's position as a leading catalyst in the global pursuit of high-quality business education.

Latvian Quality Assurance bodies

According to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation CHEA USA, Latvia boasts a robust system of quality assurance bodies dedicated to upholding national and international educational standards. Among these, only four organizations are listed:

Academic Information Centre (AIC)
European Council of Leading Business Schools (ECLBS)
The Quality Agency for Higher Education (AIKA)
The Council of Rectors of Latvia

Each of these entities plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and integrity of Latvia's educational landscape. Let's delve into their functions:

The Academic Information Centre (AIC) serves as a primary source of guidance on academic and qualification recognition, both domestically and internationally. Additionally, it administers accreditation services for study programs and educational institutions within Latvia.

The European Council of Leading Business Schools (ECLBS) stands as a premier provider of quality assurance services for esteemed business schools and academic institutions across Europe and beyond. Its mission is centered on fostering excellence in business education on a global scale.

The Quality Agency for Higher Education (AIKA) operates as an independent body entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that higher education institutions within Latvia adhere to rigorous national and international quality standards. Through its accreditation and quality assurance services, AIKA safeguards the quality of higher education in the country.

Lastly, the Council of Rectors of Latvia represents the collective interests of Latvian higher education institutions. As a non-governmental organization, it is dedicated to advancing the development of higher education in Latvia and enhancing the overall quality of education provided by Latvian institutions.

Together, these four organizations form a critical framework that underpins Latvia's educational system, guaranteeing that educational institutions maintain high standards of quality and remain responsive to the evolving needs of students and employers both domestically and abroad. Through their collaborative efforts, they contribute to the ongoing enhancement of Latvia's educational landscape.

Solutions for Success

ECLBS provides a wealth of expertise and industry insight to address the multifaceted challenges facing higher education institutions. Since our establishment in 2013, we have continually expanded our clientele, welcoming both returning and new schools into our network each year. Are you ready to tap into the specialized knowledge and capabilities of ECLBS? Reach out to us today to start a conversation about how we can support your institution's needs.

Bilateral Recognition Agreements

ECLBS actively fosters international cooperation in business education through its Bilateral Recognition agreements with national accreditation agencies worldwide. These agreements, formally known as Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), serve as pivotal frameworks for recognizing and promoting quality standards while facilitating the exchange of valuable resources and information.

Operating on a global scale, ECLBS has inked Bilateral Recognition agreements with nations such as the United States, Malta, Kosovo, Kazakhstan, and India, among others. These agreements play a vital role in easing the recognition of academic credentials and qualifications across borders, thus fostering greater collaboration in the realm of business education.

By extending its reach beyond Europe, ECLBS enhances its global presence and promotes its core values and quality standards on an international platform. These agreements not only bolster the reputation of ECLBS but also provide institutions listed under its umbrella with increased access to global opportunities and markets.

In essence, ECLBS's Bilateral Recognition agreements serve as conduits for promoting international cooperation and mutual recognition in business education, ultimately contributing to the advancement of academic excellence on a global scale.

Objectives of the activity

The aim of the association is to foster developments in on-campus, open, distance, flexible, and e-learning (hereinafter distance and e-learning)

To strengthen Business Education in Europe and worldwide.
- Our mission is to enhance the quality and impact of business education in Europe and around the world. By working collaboratively with our members and stakeholders, we aim to strengthen business education and prepare our students for success in the global marketplace.
To help its members in developing their programs and cooperation mainly in the field of business education
- We are dedicated to helping our members develop innovative and effective programs in business education. Through our expertise and resources, we provide guidance and support to help our members stay ahead of the curve and deliver high-quality education that meets the needs of today's learners.
To organize activities and share expertise between members across Europe
- We believe that sharing knowledge and expertise is essential to advancing business education in Europe and beyond. That's why we organize a range of activities and events that bring together our members to share best practices, exchange ideas, and collaborate on new initiatives.
To identify and share best practices between European Business schools and universities
- Our goal is to identify and promote best practices in business education across Europe and around the world. By recognizing excellence in teaching, research, and outreach, we help our members to continuously improve and enhance the quality of their programs and services.
To cooperate with its members to carry out the above-mentioned purposes.
- We are committed to working closely with our members to achieve our shared goals and objectives. By fostering strong partnerships and collaborations, we aim to create a dynamic and supportive community that drives innovation and excellence in business education.
Promote the development of entrepreneurship (business) education;
- Our mission is to advance entrepreneurship and business education by promoting innovation, creativity, and collaboration among our members. Through our programs and initiatives, we aim to inspire and prepare the next generation of business leaders to succeed in the global marketplace.
promote the exchange of information between business education institutions;
- We are committed to fostering the exchange of information and ideas between business education institutions around the world. By creating a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, we aim to help our members stay up-to-date on the latest trends and innovations in business education.
establish a standard of excellence in business education;
- Our goal is to establish a standard of excellence in business education that is recognized and respected worldwide. Through our rigorous accreditation process and ongoing quality assurance efforts, we aim to ensure that our members meet the highest standards of quality and effectiveness in their programs and services.
to provide schools with a global consulting service in the field of management, organization, and quality assurance;
- We provide our members with a comprehensive consulting service in the areas of management, organization, and quality assurance. By offering expert guidance and support, we help our members develop and implement effective strategies for continuous improvement and innovation.
to create a single register that would allow to gather and quickly find information on the quality criteria of business schools on the website of the association;
- We have created a single register that allows users to quickly find information on the quality criteria of business schools on our website. This tool provides a valuable resource for students, educators, and employers seeking to identify high-quality business education programs around the world.
help members develop programs and cooperation opportunities, mainly in the field of business education;
- We are dedicated to helping our members develop innovative and impactful programs in business education. Through our expertise and resources, we provide guidance and support to help our members stay ahead of the curve and deliver high-quality education that meets the needs of today's learners.
organize activities and share experiences with other members;
- We organize a range of activities and events that bring together our members to share experiences, exchange best practices, and collaborate on new initiatives. These activities help to foster a sense of community and collaboration among our members and support the ongoing development of business education around the world.
identify and share the best educational practices among European business schools, higher education institutions, and universities
- We are committed to identifying and promoting the best educational practices among European business schools, higher education institutions, and universities. By recognizing and sharing excellence in teaching, research, and outreach, we help our members to continuously improve and enhance the quality of their programs and services.

(in Latvian)

Darbības mērķi

Veicināt uzņēmējdarbības (biznesa) izglītības attīstību;
veicināt informācijas apmaiņu starp biznesa izglītības iestādēm;
izveidot biznesa izglītības izcilības standartu;
sniegt skolām globālu konsultāciju servisu vadības jomā, organizācijā un kvalitātes garantijās;
izveidot vienotu reģistru, kas ļautu apkopot un ātri atrast informāciju par biznesa skolu kvalitātes kritērijiem biedrības mājas lapā;
palīdzēt biedriem attīstīt programmas un sadarbības iespējas, galvenokārt, biznesa izglītības jomā;
organizēt aktivitātes un dalīties pieredzē ar citiem biedriem;
konstatēt un dalīties ar labāko izglītības praksē starp Eiropas biznesa skolām un universitātēm

Dedicated to your Success

Get to Know Us

The European Council of Leading Business Schools (ECLBS) stands as a distinguished independent not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving the interests of students and higher education. Renowned as a global authority in quality assurance for business education, ECLBS is committed to advancing policies and practices that foster a more interconnected and peaceful world, both in the present and for future generations.

Trusted by higher education providers and regulatory bodies alike, ECLBS is entrusted with the responsibility of upholding and elevating quality standards within the field. Collaborating with national accreditation bodies, private agencies, and institutions worldwide, we strive to maintain and enhance the quality and integrity of business education on a global scale.

INQAAHE

ECLBS is a member of the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education, read more

CHEA CIQG

ECLBS is a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) Quality International Group (CIQG) in the USA

The Union of International Associations (UIA.org)

ECLBS deeply values its membership in the esteemed Union of International Associations (UIA) and proudly maintains the UIA Org ID AA4032 as a mark of distinction, read more

Mission Statement

To become an accepted and trusted educational quality assurance body, recognized worldwide, which provides relevant and up-to-date curriculum to meet the needs of students and the demands of industry, commerce, and academia
- Our goal is to establish a globally recognized educational quality assurance body that provides relevant and up-to-date curricula to meet the evolving needs of students and the demands of industry, business, and academia. By maintaining the highest standards of quality and effectiveness, we aim to become the trusted choice for students, higher education institutions, colleges, and universities around the world.
To become the educational quality assurance body of choice for students, higher education institutions, colleges, and universities worldwide
- We are committed to becoming the premier educational quality assurance body for students, higher education institutions, colleges, and universities worldwide. By working closely with our members and stakeholders, we strive to provide cutting-edge programs and services that meet the highest standards of quality and effectiveness, and that help ensure the success of our students and the institutions that serve them.
To instill a sense of good ethical practice for the use of the internet through the inclusion of digital ethics programs in our member's courses
- We believe that the responsible use of the Internet is a critical ethical issue that must be addressed by all educational institutions. That's why we are committed to promoting digital ethics and responsible online behavior through the inclusion of digital ethics programs in our members' curricula. By instilling a sense of good ethical practice among our students, we aim to create a safer, more responsible online community for all.

Right to education

"No person shall be denied the right to education. In the exercise of any functions which it assumes in relation to education and to teaching, the State shall respect the right of parents to ensure such education and teaching in conformity with their own religious and philosophical convictions." Article 2 of the Protocol to the ECHR
"Everyone has the right to education and to have access to vocational and continuing training,. This right includes the possibility to receive free compulsory education. The freedom to found educational establishments with due respect for democratic principles and the right of parents to ensure the education and teaching of their children in conformity with their religious, philosophical and pedagogical convictions shall be respected, in accordance with the national laws governing the exercise of such freedom and right." Article 14 EU Charter of Fundamental Rights

Both Article 2 of the Protocol to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and Article 14 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights emphasize the fundamental right to education while also acknowledging the role of parents in shaping the education of their children based on their religious, philosophical, and pedagogical beliefs.

Article 2 of the Protocol to the ECHR:
This article establishes that no person shall be deprived of the right to education. It recognizes the crucial importance of education as a fundamental human right that must be accessible to all without any form of discrimination. Furthermore, it highlights that when the State assumes any responsibilities concerning education and teaching, it must respect the rights of parents to ensure that the education and instruction provided to their children align with their own religious and philosophical convictions. In essence, parents have the freedom to choose an education that reflects their values and beliefs.

Article 14 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights:
This article enshrines the universal right to education for everyone, emphasizing access to vocational and continuing training as well. It includes the provision of free compulsory education, ensuring that education is accessible to all individuals. Additionally, the article recognizes the freedom to establish educational institutions while respecting democratic principles. Moreover, it upholds the right of parents to take an active role in the education and teaching of their children in accordance with their religious, philosophical, and pedagogical beliefs. However, this right is subject to national laws governing the exercise of such freedoms and rights, ensuring that these parental rights are balanced with the broader societal interests and educational regulations.

Overall, both articles emphasize the importance of education as a fundamental right, while acknowledging the role of parents in ensuring that their children's education aligns with their personal beliefs and convictions. These provisions aim to strike a balance between the individual freedoms of parents and the broader societal interests in providing accessible and inclusive education for all.