Deciphering the Dynamics of Entrepreneurial Motivation and Critical Entrepreneurial Intention among Lebanese Graduates

Unveiling the Role of Perceived Risk in the Post-Pandemic

Abstract

Amidst the post-pandemic paradigm, this study delves into the interplay between entrepreneurial motivation factors and the intention of Lebanese students towards entrepreneurship. Employing a quantitative approach, a survey was administered to 326 randomly selected students. Through Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and structural modeling, the research examines how entrepreneurial motivation influences entrepreneurial intention, with a focus on the mediating role of perceived risk. The findings underscore the pivotal role of motivational drivers, including autonomy, achievement, locus of control, participation in entrepreneurial education, and profit motives, all significantly shaping Lebanese university students' entrepreneurial intention. Notably, the correlation between entrepreneurial motivation and intention is mediated by risk perception. In a world recalibrating post-pandemic, universities are pivotal in fostering entrepreneurship through robust education, enhancing students' motivation for entrepreneurial pursuits. Thus, bolstering entrepreneurial motivation augments students' intention to embark on entrepreneurial endeavors. Moreover, this study acknowledges the significance of sustainable development in the post-pandemic context, where fostering entrepreneurship aligned with sustainable goals can contribute to both economic growth and societal well-being. This study contributes to understanding student entrepreneurial motivation, risk perception, and intention, offering a validated framework for future research. These findings hold practical implications for educators, advocating the integration of entrepreneurship in post-pandemic higher education curricula, enriching knowledge dissemination in an evolving environment.