Navigating the startup spirit: University students’ path to entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic growth, with university students playing a pivotal role in fostering innovation and new ventures. This study examines the entrepreneurial intention (EI) of Malaysian university students through the lens of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), emphasizing the mediating role of entrepreneurial alertness (EA). Using data from 400 undergraduates and recent graduates, this research investigates how entrepreneurial passion (EP), entrepreneurship education (EE), family factor (FF), peer influence (P), entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE), and access to financial resources (ATFR) shape EI. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) revealed three critical findings: (1) EP, EE, P, and ESE positively influence EI, with EA amplifying these effects; (2) FF and ATFR negatively impact EI, without mediation by EA; and (3) attitude is the most influential antecedent of EI. These findings highlight the need for universities and policymakers to foster a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, addressing cultural and contextual challenges unique to Malaysia. This study contributes new insights into the factors shaping EI in emerging economies, offering actionable recommendations for enhancing student entrepreneurship.