Mediating Effect of Self-Efficacy Between Entrepreneurial Drive and Start-Up Intention Among Working Professionals in Nigeria (Published)
Attitude and education are fundamental to new venture creation, shaping confidence, motivation and self-fulfillment. This study investigates the mediating role of self-efficacy in the relationship between entrepreneurial drive and start-up intention among working professionals in Nigeria. The research aims to establish the direct effects of entrepreneurial attitude and entrepreneurial education on start-up intention; as well as their total effects through self-efficacy as a mediating variable. A conceptual framework was developed and tested using survey data from 119 working professionals, collected through a structured questionnaire. Proper data screening and reliability checks were carried out to ensure consistency and validity of the measures. The findings have identified that there is a strong positive relationship between entrepreneurial attitude and start-up intention. The influence of entrepreneurial education is limited for the intention to start up a business. The mediation analysis revealed that self-efficacy does not mediate the relationship between entrepreneurial attitude, entrepreneurial education, and start-up intention. The study recommends that entrepreneurs’ development programs should focus on the development of positive entrepreneurial attitude, teaching should be more practical based on experience and policy makers providing a more enabling environment through easier access to funds and support for start-ups.
Keywords: Nigeria, Self-Efficacy, entrepreneurial attitude, entrepreneurial education, start-up intention, working professionals