Rise Up: Development and Influencers of Entrepreneurial Intentions Among Latvian Secondary School Students

This study explores the entrepreneurial attitudes and intentions of secondary school graduates in Latvia. Factors such as family background, work experience, and exposure to entrepreneurship education programs are examined. A mixed-methods approach is employed, combining a quantitative survey of 1200 students with qualitative semi-structured interviews of 40 participants. The results show that a significant number of graduates express an interest in becoming entrepreneurs, with family background, work experience, and migration experience influencing their inclination towards entrepreneurship. Involvement in entrepreneurship activities during school and exposure to entrepreneurial role models positively shape their attitudes. These findings highlight the importance of promoting entrepreneurship education and support for young people in shaping their entrepreneurial aspirations.