Enablers of students' entrepreneurial intentions: findings from PLS-SEM and fsQCA

Abstract

Purpose

This study explores the enablers of students “entrepreneurial intentions by identifying the factors that raise students” interest in embracing an entrepreneurial career.

Design/methodology/approach

Entrepreneurship education is increasingly attracting attention as a means of fostering entrepreneurial activity and creating a culture of innovation. Developing students' entrepreneurial intentions is critical to promote entrepreneurship. This research is built on a mixed method approach of partial least squares structural equation modelling and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis.

Findings

The factors that influence students ‘entrepreneurial intentions are identified: business incubation programmes, non-reimbursable grants for entrepreneurial students, networking events to promote entrepreneurship, mentoring services, innovation labs for business idea validation and entrepreneurship courses. This knowledge can help develop effective entrepreneurship education programmes. The study also provides actionable insights for educational institutions and policymakers. It underscores the need for innovative educational platforms such as entrepreneurial bootcamps. It also highlights the value of advanced learning environments such as decision theatres to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the body of knowledge on entrepreneurship education. It highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to understand the factors that shape students’ entrepreneurial intentions.

Citation

Sisu, J.A., Tirnovanu, A.C., Patriche, C.-C., Nastase, M. and Schin, G.C. (2024), "Enablers of students' entrepreneurial intentions: findings from PLS-SEM and fsQCA", International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, Vol. 30 No. 4, pp. 856-884. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEBR-07-2023-0689