The Influence of Institutional Contexts on Entrepreneurship

This study empirically investigates young people's perceptions of entrepreneurship within different institutional contexts. Through a comparative analysis, we examine survey data collected from university students in Bulgaria, Italy, Türkiye, Romania, and Malta, who participated anonymously and voluntarily. While traditional narratives suggest that young people in Southern Europe lack entrepreneurial drive, our findings reveal a more nuanced reality. Although students express strong interest in entrepreneurship, few are inclined to start their own businesses, largely due to structural barriers such as limited access to information, training, and institutional support. This paradox highlights a gap between entrepreneurial aspiration and practical feasibility. Our results indicate that students value creativity and innovation but perceive significant obstacles to self-employment, favoring salaried work for its stability. Furthermore, students recognize the need for enhanced entrepreneurship education, mentoring programs, and institutional policies that foster a more supportive ecosystem. By addressing these gaps, universities and policymakers can play a crucial role in cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset among young people.