The relationship between entrepreneurial cognitions and sustainability orientation: the case of an emerging market
Journal of Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies
ISSN: 2053-4604
Article publication date: 30 October 2020
Issue publication date: 12 November 2021
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the cognitive drivers that push entrepreneurs toward sustainable venture creation using entrepreneurial cognitive scripts. In particular, this study tests the relationship between entrepreneurial cognitive scripts and sustainability orientation among entrepreneurs in an emerging economy to understand whether entrepreneurial cognitive scripts act as a driver toward sustainability.
Design/methodology/approach
A primary research study was conducted using a structured questionnaire among 351 sample respondents, of which 54% labeled themselves as entrepreneurs and 46% labeled themselves as traditional business people, business students or non-entrepreneurs. The entrepreneurs represented more than ten different industries such as agriculture, food and beverage, education, technology and entertainment.
Findings
The findings of this study highlighted a negative relationship between entrepreneurial cognitions and sustainability orientation as hypothesized. Additionally, non-entrepreneurs were found to be more sustainability-oriented, whereas entrepreneurs with high levels of cognitive scripts were found less concerned about sustainability issues.
Research limitations/implications
This study has a geographic limitation as it has been conducted in a developing country, which is Egypt. Accordingly, the results should be generalized with caution to other developing nations.
Practical implications
This study shows the importance of sustainable entrepreneurship education as an important part of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The study sheds the light on the different stakeholders that are responsible for raising awareness about the importance of sustainability in developing countries.
Originality/value
This study empirically validates the relationship between entrepreneurial cognitive scripts and sustainability orientation among several industries in a developing country. The study has also a novel contribution in validating that non-entrepreneurs can enjoy entrepreneurial cognitive scripts without the necessity of starting their ventures.
Keywords
Citation
Abdelnaeim, S.M. and El-Bassiouny, N. (2021), "The relationship between entrepreneurial cognitions and sustainability orientation: the case of an emerging market", Journal of Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies, Vol. 13 No. 5, pp. 1033-1056. https://doi.org/10.1108/JEEE-03-2020-0069
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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