In a rapidly evolving entrepreneurial landscape, knowledge alone is no longer enough. True advantage comes from how learning is applied, aligned, and transformed into action. Otilia Qaraman shares how intentional education, strategic clarity, and continuous personal development empower founders and SMEs to build resilient businesses, lead with confidence, and create sustainable growth in a competitive digital world.

“Knowledge creates potential, but intentional action builds resilient, sustainable businesses.”

What inspired you to focus on supporting startups and SMEs alongside your educational programs?

My journey into supporting startups and SMEs grew naturally from education. Over the years, I worked with ambitious students, founders, and professionals who had strong ideas but lacked the strategic foundation to turn those ideas into sustainable businesses. I realised that education should not stop at theory; it must translate into action, confidence, and measurable growth.

Excellence Online Academy was created to bridge that gap. Whether working with young entrepreneurs or early-stage founders, my mission has always been the same: to empower people with the mindset, skills, and strategic clarity needed to build businesses that last.

What are the most common challenges startups face when developing branding, marketing, or business strategies?

The most common challenge is a lack of clarity. Many startups rush into branding or marketing without a clear value proposition, target audience, or long-term vision. As a result, their messaging becomes inconsistent, their offers feel confusing, and growth stalls.

Another major challenge is trying to do everything at once. Founders often underestimate the importance of focus, prioritisation, and systems, especially in the early stages.

How can early-stage entrepreneurs leverage digital learning to gain a competitive edge?

Digital learning allows founders to access world-class expertise, mentorship, and global perspectives without geographical limitations. When designed well, it offers flexibility, real-time application, and continuous upskilling.

The key is intentional learning, not consuming endless content, but engaging in structured programmes that combine knowledge, practice, and feedback. This is where digital education becomes a strategic advantage rather than just information overload.

How do you help startups create scalable business models and long-term growth strategies?

We focus on building strong foundations before scaling. This includes clarifying the business model, validating the market, refining the offer, and developing leadership and decision-making skills.

Scalability is not just about revenue. It’s about systems, mindset, and adaptability. Our programmes guide founders to think long-term while taking smart, sustainable steps in the present.

What role does mentorship play in shaping the success of young entrepreneurs?

Mentorship is transformative. It accelerates learning, reduces costly mistakes, and builds confidence. More importantly, it helps entrepreneurs see beyond their current limitations.

For young entrepreneurs especially, mentorship provides perspective, someone who believes in their potential while challenging them to think bigger, act smarter, and lead with integrity.

How do you design programs that deliver tangible results for both students and business owners?

Every programme we design is outcome-driven. We begin with clear objectives and reverse-engineer the learning journey to ensure participants leave with practical tools, real progress, and a clear next step.

We combine live sessions, applied projects, expert mentorship, and reflection. This ensures learning is not passive, but deeply connected to real-world impact.

Can you share an example of a startup that transformed after working with Excellence Online Academy?

We have worked with founders who entered our programmes feeling uncertain and overwhelmed and left with refined business models, greater confidence, and a clear growth roadmap. In several cases, participants successfully repositioned their brands, launched new offers, or secured partnerships shortly after completing the programme.

The transformation is not just in the business; it’s in how founders think, lead, and show up.

What key lessons should founders learn about leadership before scaling their businesses?

Founders must understand that leadership evolves as the business grows. What works at the startup stage may not work at scale.

Self-awareness, emotional intelligence, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to build and trust teams are essential. Scaling a business without developing the founder often leads to burnout or instability.

How do you see the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship evolving in the next five years?

Technology will continue to democratise entrepreneurship, but it will also raise the bar. Access alone will no longer be enough; strategic thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership will set successful founders apart.

We will see a stronger emphasis on hybrid learning, AI-driven insights, global collaboration, and purpose-driven businesses that balance profit with impact.

What advice would you give to entrepreneurs who are hesitant about investing in professional development or online learning?

The most significant risk is not investing in yourself. Professional development is not a cost; it is a growth strategy.

Entrepreneurs who commit to learning gain clarity, confidence, and resilience. In a rapidly changing world, continuous learning is no longer optional; it is essential for long-term success.