Three dimensions of perceived support and entrepreneurial intention: self-efficacy and risk-taking as moderators

This study investigates the impact of three dimensions of perceived support—perceived structural support (PSS), perceived relational support (PRS), and perceived educational support (PES), on entrepreneurial intention (EI). A conceptual model was developed to investigate self-efficacy and risk-taking as moderators in the relationship between three dimensions of perceived support and EI. The hypothesized relationships are tested in the context of a developing nation: India. The study collected data from 628 students across three districts in the southern part of India (Tamil Nadu). The survey instrument's psychometric properties were rigorously tested using PLS-SEM. Subsequently, the study tested its hypotheses using hierarchical regression and PROCESS macros, ensuring a robust and reliable research design. The results indicate that (i) PSS, PRS, and PES are significant predictors of EI, (ii) self-efficacy moderated the relationship between PSS, PES and EI, (iii) risk taking moderated the relationship between PSS, PRS, PES and EI. The results did not find support for moderating effect of self-efficacy in the relationship between PRS and EI. This study brings a unique perspective by examining self-efficacy and risk-taking as moderators in the relationship between three dimensions of perceived support and EI. To the best of our knowledge, none of the previous studies delved into such investigation. This novel approach provides a deeper understanding of the interplay between these three dimensions and EI, which can guide the government, academics, and supportive organizations in fostering the entrepreneurial spirit among young adults and shaping their entrepreneurial career paths.