Unfolding the Antecedents of Entrepreneurial Sustenance: Evidence from Women Entrepreneurs in India

This research investigates the relationship between entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) and sustenance. Using social cognitive theory (SCT) and self-determination theory (SDT) as theoretical underpinnings, a conceptual model is developed showing the relationships between ESE, decision-making, motivation, skills and competencies, relational support, knowledge, and sustenance of women entrepreneurs. A survey instrument was used to collect data from 396 respondents from the women entrepreneurs in the Dindigul district of southern Tamil Nadu, India. First, the measures' psychometric properties were tested using LISREL software for structural equation modeling. Second, hypothesized relationships were tested using PROCESS macros. The findings indicate (i) ESE is a significant predictor of entrepreneurial decision-making, motivation, and sustenance, (ii) entrepreneurial decision-making and motivation mediate the relationship between ESE and entrepreneurial sustenance, (iii) entrepreneurial knowledge moderates the relationship between ESE and entrepreneurial decision-making, and (iv) relational support (first moderator) and entrepreneurial skills (second moderator) moderate the relationship between motivation and entrepreneurial sustenance. The two-way interaction between ESE and entrepreneurial knowledge in influencing entrepreneurial decision-making and the three-way interaction between motivation, relational support, and skills and competencies in influencing entrepreneurial sustenance bring novelty to the model. To the best of our knowledge, this model's two-way interaction and three-way interaction of variables is the first of its kind in India, particularly about women entrepreneurs in India. It makes a pivotal contribution to entrepreneurship theory and practice.