CAN UNIVERSITIES SUPPORT THE ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION? PUTTING ENTREPRENEURIAL EDUCATION INTO PRACTICE

Within the context of university's third mission, the impact of entrepreneurial education (EE) on human capital and entrepreneurial intention (EI) has been extensively studied. However, the literature reveals that some research gaps exist. In this view, the paper investigates whether and how EE provided by a university business plan competition (BPC) affects the development of a definite set of knowledge and skills responsible for the emergence of EI among academics. A theoretical model has been proposed to analyse the relationships among EE, entrepreneurship-related human capital (ErHC) and EI. Moreover, the effect of perception of the external environment has been considered. The model is tested by a structural equation modelling with empirical data from a population of academics of seven universities located in an Italian region. Results reveal that EE influences both ErHC and EI. Moreover, a virtuous reinforcing circle between EI and ErHC exists which encourages individuals to make an entrepreneurial choice. Finally, a positive evaluation of the BPC context enhances the learning process and EI. Hence, entrepreneurial universities confirm to play a relevant role in the local economic development, even though the first mission of teaching remains crucial.