Family businesses represent the oldest, most common, and most diverse form of organization and play an essential role in the global economy. As a result, research on family businesses has grown steadily. In contrast, family business education remains a relatively new field, still lacking own theories and established conceptual models.

The aim of this article is to broaden the understanding of family business education. To achieve this, a qualitative research method based on a scoping review approach was used. First, literature on family businesses was reviewed to develop a general understanding of the sector. Then, literature on family business education was reviewed to explore how the field has developed, how it reflects broader trends in family business research, and how it responds to the specific characteristics of family businesses.

The results show that family businesses contribute significantly to the global economy by generating employment and supporting well-being in both industrialized and emerging markets. They are often more successful and longer-lived than non-family businesses, despite facing challenges related, above all, to succession, management conflicts, family dynamics, and the pursuit of long-term continuity.

The findings also point to increasing need for education not only for family members but also for non-family employees and other stakeholders. Such education is important for increasing awareness and sharing knowledge about the specific characteristics that influence how family businesses operate and make decisions. Furthermore, the results show that universities and business schools should integrate family business education into their curricula. Doing so would improve understanding of the unique features of family businesses and support the development of future leaders, particularly during succession processes that are critical to the success, long-term survival and economic impact of family businesses.

In line with its aim, this study contributes to a better understanding of family business education, a young but important research field that supports the development and success of family businesses.

Keywords: Family business, education, family business education.