Key Drivers of Entrepreneurial Intentions: Evidence from Engineering Students

Abstract

Entrepreneurship plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and reducing poverty, particularly in developing countries. Engineering students, as future professionals and innovators, are instrumental in shaping entrepreneurial ecosystems. Understanding the factors that influence or hinder their entrepreneurial intentions is crucial for policymakers and educators. This study integrates the Theory of Planned Behaviour and entrepreneurial education to identify the key determinants of entrepreneurial intentions and examine the impact of entrepreneurial education on their development among engineering students. Using data collected through surveys completed by 239 engineering students from Southeast European countries, the study employs exploratory factor analysis and multivariate regression. Four factors emerged as significant: positive attitudes toward entrepreneurship, perceived behavioural control, entrepreneurial education, and the negative influence of social norms. The regression model explains 59.7% of the variance in entrepreneurial intentions, highlighting the role of these factors. Findings reveal that engineering students often lack the skills and confidence needed for entrepreneurship despite showing enthusiasm. A well-structured entrepreneurial education programme can address these gaps by fostering a positive mindset and providing practical skills. Furthermore, governments play a key role in promoting entrepreneurship through supportive policies, reducing risks for startups, and encouraging universities to position entrepreneurship as a viable career path. These efforts can inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and strengthen public support for entrepreneurial initiatives. This study offers valuable insights for improving entrepreneurial activity in developing regions.