Nexus between entrepreneurial self-efficacy, entrepreneurial motivation, and entrepreneurial intention: a moderated mediation model

This research is aimed at investigating how entrepreneurial motivation (EM) affects the entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE)-entrepreneurial intention (EI) relationship. Further, it focuses on gender’s potential moderating role in young students. An online survey was conducted targeting students receiving professional education in north India. Convenience sampling was used to get data from 314 students. Descriptive statistics, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling were employed. ESE is a predictor of EM and EI. Multigroup analysis showed that these relationships were stronger in females than their male counterparts. EM had a positive impact on EI, especially in males. Gender did not moderate the ESE and EI relationship mediated by EM. These findings expand the literature on nascent entrepreneurship. Students’ ESE has positive consequences for EM and EI, resulting in increased chances of entrepreneurial growth. We aim to assess the moderating effect of gender on the perceived ESE-EI association, with EM serving as a mediator, among students. The strong empirical evidence is suggestive of increased chances of females becoming entrepreneurs. Providing career counseling and evaluation of ESE of young students might promote entrepreneurial activities.