Abstract:
The entrepreneurial ecosystem refers to the dynamic
interplay of socioeconomic factors that enable
entrepreneurs to establish and expand their businesses. The
degree of entrepreneurial activity is heavily influenced by
how entrepreneurs perceive this ecosystem. This research
examines the perceptions of such ecosystems in Nepal.
Specifically, the study investigates the differences in
understanding entrepreneurial ecosystem factors between
students and entrepreneurs. To accomplish this, a survey
consisting of a set of questions was administered to 343
students and 158 entrepreneurs. It was observed that,
compared to students, entrepreneurs rated significantly
lower in all the ecosystem factors except for
entrepreneurial capabilities. An independent samples t-test
result showed a significant difference in the perception of
the entrepreneurship ecosystem factors among students
and entrepreneurs, except for social-cultural support. The
study suggested that a high level of entrepreneurial
ecosystem development is not required to influence
entrepreneurial activity; improvement in some factors,
such as family and social support, skill-building education,
and training, might increase entrepreneurial intentions.
