Exploring the Drivers of Entrepreneurial Potential: The Role of Passion, Social Capital, and Anxiety in Women Entrepreneurship

This research delves into the complex interplay influences of entrepreneurial potential and consequently its impact on entrepreneurial intention, focusing on women entrepreneurs in India. Founded on Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), the paper investigates the effects of entrepreneurial passion, social capital, and entrepreneurial anxiety as antecedents to entrepreneurial potential. Using a quantitative approach, data were sourced from women entrepreneurs based in four major cities of India. It was found that entrepreneurial passion and social capital would positively impact entrepreneurial potential, while entrepreneurial anxiety would exert a negative influence. Entrepreneurial potential is also conceptualized as an important predictor of entrepreneurial intention, filling the gap between intrinsic motivations and actionable outcomes. The paper contributes to the theoretical development of SCT because it gives an indication of how personal, social, and emotional factors influence entrepreneur behavior. The results underscore the necessity to foster supportive networks and resilience-building mechanisms to counteract the negative impact of anxiety. Furthermore, the research provides some practical insights for policymakers and practitioners on targeted interventions. Based on the identified gaps in the knowledge of women’s entrepreneurship in India, this report fills out the complete strategic framework to boost participations and provide practical steps to an inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.