Exploring the Entrepreneurial Intentions of Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University Students and the University’s Role Aligned with Vision 2030

• Published in: Sustainability Vol. 15; no. 24; p. 16769
• Main Authors: Eid, Nawal A. Al, Alkhathlan, Khalid Abdullah, Haque, Mohammad Imdadul, Alkhateeb, Tarek Tawfik Yousef, Mahmoud, Doaa H. I, Eliw, Moataz, Adow, Anass Hamadelneel
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Basel MDPI AG 01.12.2023
• Subjects: Attitudes; Colleges & universities; Economic development; Economic growth; Empowerment; Entrepreneurs; Entrepreneurship; Females; Gender; Hypotheses; Job creation; Labor force; Perceptions; Small & medium sized enterprises-SME; Social aspects; Social norms; Startups; Surveys; Theory of planned behavior; Unemployment; University students; Venture capital; Women college students; Saudi Arabia
• ISSN: 2071-1050; 2071-1050
• DOI: 10.3390/su152416769

This research examines entrepreneurial intentions among female students at Princess Nourah University in Saudi Arabia, utilizing the theory of planned behavior (TPB) as the foundational theoretical framework. The study adopted a quantitative methodology, collecting data through questionnaires distributed to a select group of students. We used structural equation modeling (SEM) to investigate the complex relationships between attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and entrepreneurial intention. The findings indicate a strong tendency towards entrepreneurship, with over 64% of respondents expressing their intention to engage in entrepreneurial activities in the future. This suggests a substantial potential for female entrepreneurship. In contrast, a minor proportion (3.21%) showed no interest in entrepreneurship, and about 32% were undecided, highlighting the necessity for enhanced mentorship and support to encourage their entrepreneurial spirit. The application of TPB reveals that participants generally have positive attitudes and perceived control over entrepreneurship, although societal norms occasionally act as barriers. The study emphasizes the significance of cultural support and academic initiatives, including entrepreneurship courses and incubators, to nurture the entrepreneurial ambitions of female students. Based on these findings, the study advocates for the expansion of mentorship programs to further strengthen female entrepreneurial involvement. This research contributes to understanding the dynamics of female entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia, underscoring the importance of a supportive environment for women’s entrepreneurial ventures.