Bridging the entrepreneurial intention to behaviour gap using entrepreneurial role models

Background: Entrepreneurship has emerged as a vital driver of economic growth and a key strategy for creating jobs in most developing countries. The South African government also believes that entrepreneurship can help address challenges such as youth unemployment. As such, identifying factors that can enhance the entrepreneurial intention and behaviour among the youth becomes vital. Aim: This study aimed to assess whether entrepreneurial intention positively predicts entrepreneurial behaviour (EB) among students. Additionally, the study tested whether entrepreneurial role models moderate this relationship. Setting: This study was conducted using students at a South African university. Methods: The study collected quantitative data using a self-administered questionnaire. A sample size of 361 university students was recruited using convenience sampling. The data were analysed using partial least square structural equation modelling (SMART-PLS 4 software). Results: It was established that entrepreneurial intention positively predicts actual behaviour. Surprisingly, only one of the four hypothesised role models (i.e. successful entrepreneurs) was a significant moderator in the relationship between entrepreneurial intention and actual behaviour. Conclusion: This study provides empirical evidence that successful entrepreneurial role models are a necessary boundary condition that can help students transition from entrepreneurial intention to actual EB, which is crucial for new venture creation. Contribution: The findings can guide universities and educators in integrating experiential entrepreneurship programmes and mentorship opportunities into the curriculum, particularly those involving successful entrepreneurs as guest lecturers, mentors or advisers, as these were found to be useful in this study.