Introduction

The Business Development Association (BDA) is the global authority for accrediting educational and consulting institutions, and for granting strategic partnership status to academic and training providers worldwide. It is important to distinguish between institutional accreditations, partnerships, and professional certifications:

• Professional Certifications (BDA-CP™, BDA-SCP™) are designed for individuals.

• Institutional Accreditations are granted to academic, training, or consulting institutions that comply with BDA BoCK® standards.

• Partnerships are granted to organizations that collaborate directly with BDA to promote and apply global business development standards.

This page outlines the terms and obligations institutions must meet in order to be accredited or recognized as official BDA partners.

1. Institutional Accreditation Terms

Applicable to universities, colleges, training centers, and consulting firms.

• Full alignment with the BDA Body of Competency & Knowledge (BDA BoCK®) in curriculum and program design.

• Having a robust academic or training evaluation system that ensures quality learning outcomes.

• Employing BDA-certified trainers/faculty members or equivalently qualified professionals.

• Undergoing periodic reviews by BDA to confirm continuous compliance with standards.

• Using BDA accreditation logos only in authorized and approved contexts.

See: Business Accreditations

2. Partnership Terms

Applicable to academic institutions, universities, consulting firms, and training providers.

• Signing an official partnership agreement with BDA based on a recognized framework.

• Commitment to the BDA Code of Conduct and principles of transparency and integrity.

• Collaboration with BDA in launching joint programs, events, or research initiatives.

• Submitting periodic activity reports on programs conducted under BDA’s partnership umbrella.

• Using BDA’s name and logo only in accordance with the Intellectual Property & Trademark Usage Policy.

See: Types of Partnerships

3. Shared Obligations for Accreditations & Partnerships

• Upholding BDA’s global standards of quality, governance, and sustainability.

• Compliance with data protection policies and adherence to GDPR regulations.

• Participation in BDA’s periodic reviews and evaluations.

• Ensuring all activities and programs align with BDA’s ethical values and professional standards.

4. Suspension or Revocation of Accreditation/Partnership

BDA reserves the right to suspend or revoke any accreditation or partnership in the following cases:

• Violation of BDA BoCK® standards or the Code of Conduct.

• Submission of false or misleading information during application.

• Misuse of BDA’s name or logo.

• Engagement in unprofessional or unlawful practices.

5. Application Process

• Submit an application through the official BDA portal.

• Provide all required documentation (curricula, training plans, staff details).

• Application review by BDA’s Accreditation & Partnerships Committee.

• Notification of the final decision and issuance of a monitoring and follow-up plan.

Obtaining an Institutional Accreditation or entering into a Strategic Partnership with the Business Development Association (BDA) is not merely an administrative process, but a full commitment to the global standards established by BDA.

This commitment strengthens trust among professionals and institutions, ensuring that all activities under the BDA umbrella reflect the values of transparency, quality, and sustainability.