Policy-Entrepreneurship Gap: Challenges in the Adoption of Government Startup Support Schemes by New Ventures in Lucknow

Abstract This study examines the Policy–Entrepreneurship Gap: Challenges in the Adoption of Government Startup Support Schemes by New Ventures in Lucknow, exploring barriers to effective utilization of government initiatives. The rationale arises from the persistent mismatch between policies and adoption in urban startup ecosystems, marked by bureaucratic complexity, limited awareness, and implementation inefficiencies. Using a quantitative design, data were collected from 267 startup founders across technology, healthcare, agriculture, education, and e-commerce via a structured questionnaire, with reliability confirmed through high internal consistency. Analyses included descriptive statistics, ANOVA, multiple regression, and Pearson correlation. Results showed sectoral differences, with technology and e-commerce facing fewer barriers. While regression found no direct impact on economic development, correlation revealed a positive link with expectations for policy reforms, highlighting an implementation gap. The study recommends sector-specific policies, simpler procedures, and improved communication to enhance adoption. Keywords: Policy–Entrepreneurship Gap, Startup Support Schemes, Government Policy Challenges, Scheme Adoption, Entrepreneurial Ecosystem