Passion and intention among aspiring entrepreneurs with disabilities: the role of entrepreneurial support programs

Abstract

Purpose

This study examines the relationship between entrepreneurial passion, entrepreneurial support programs and entrepreneurial intention, and the moderating role of entrepreneurial support programs in the relationship between entrepreneurial passion and entrepreneurial intention, among students with physical disabilities in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a closed-ended questionnaire survey, composed of previously validated scales, to sample 209 students with physical disabilities at tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Hierarchal regression was performed to assess the relationships between the variables and test the hypotheses.

Findings

Both entrepreneurial passion and entrepreneurial support programs were found to be significantly positively related to entrepreneurial intention, and entrepreneurial support programs also moderated the relationship between entrepreneurial passion and entrepreneurial intention.

Research limitations/implications

This research paper identifies that developing entrepreneurial passion and providing accessible and inclusive entrepreneurial support programs are valuable in supporting and facilitating a passage into entrepreneurship for those with disabilities.

Originality/value

This research paper addresses calls for further understanding of how those with disabilities can be supported into entrepreneurship, by identifying supporting factors. The research paper provides further understanding of the entrepreneurial passion and intention nexus by exploring the relationship within those with a physical disability, where significant barriers exist and within a developing country context where entrepreneurship might be a necessity rather than driven by passion.

Citation

Dakung, R.J., Bell, R., Orobia, L.A., Dakung, K.R. and Yatu, L.N. (2023), "Passion and intention among aspiring entrepreneurs with disabilities: the role of entrepreneurial support programs", Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, Vol. 30 No. 7, pp. 1241-1263. https://doi.org/10.1108/JSBED-01-2023-0019