The influence of the socio-demographic factors on entrepreneurial propensity of urban youths in Mashonaland West Province

Abstract

The primary objective of the study was to examine the influence of the socio-demographic factors on entrepreneurial propensity of urban youths. Pragmatism research philosophy was adopted since it allows the use of mixed research method. A cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data. Quantitative data were collected from 377 urban youth entrepreneurs using a structured self-administered questionnaire with Likert-type questions. Also, qualitative data were collected from 30 urban youth entrepreneurs using interview guide. Reliability for questionnaire was tested using Cronbach’s alpha (α) and the data were validated through confirmatory factor analysis, convergent validity, and discriminant validity. For interview guide reliability was tested using trustworthiness, peer debriefing and pilot study. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS v20 and AMOS whilst qualitative data were analysed using thematic approach. The study establishes that individual background, age, formal education, marital status positively influence entrepreneurial propensity and entrepreneurial propensity positively influences urban youth entrepreneurship. Major themes that came from the study were: individuals background, experiences and personality are pillars for entrepreneurship development; family/parents and past experiences act as a catalyst for starting a business; formal education is an instrument for entrepreneurial propensity; the relationship between age and the likelihood of starting a new business is highest at a relatively early age and decreases after that; marital status is a pushing factor in the desire for one to start a business; the behaviour of an individual to start a business is influenced by entrepreneurial event, where perceived feasibility, perceived desirability and propensity to act influence the intention; the success of urban youth entrepreneurship hinges upon government support and the participation of a multiplicity of stakeholders. Results imply that individual background, age, formal education, marital status is crucial to improve entrepreneurial propensity. Also, entrepreneurial propensity is important in enhancing urban youth entrepreneurship. Government and universities are therefore recommended to focus on socio-demographic factor to enhance entrepreneurial propensity and urban youth entrepreneurship. Thus, universities should offer formal entrepreneurship education to youth. Government and other multiplicity of stakeholders should ensure that they offer support to urban youth entrepreneurs. It is recommended that future studies be carried out across other cities in Zimbabwe and other countries. Also, future studies may adopt either qualitative or quantitative methods. Lastly, it is recommended that similar studies be carried out using rural or peri-urban youth as part of respondents.