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Title: Can role models boost entrepreneurial attitudes?

Authors: Katharina Fellnhofer; Kaisu Puumalainen

Addresses: Lappeenranta University of Technology, LUT School of Business and Management, P.O. Box 20, 53851 Lappeenranta, Finland ' Lappeenranta University of Technology, LUT School of Business and Management, P.O. Box 20, 53851 Lappeenranta, Finland

Abstract: This multi-country study used role models to boost perceptions of entrepreneurial feasibility and desirability. The results of a structural equation model based on a sample comprising 426 individuals who were primarily from Austria, Finland and Greece revealed a significant positive influence on perceived entrepreneurial desirability and feasibility. These findings support the argument for embedding entrepreneurial role models in entrepreneurship education courses to promote entrepreneurial activities. This direction is not only relevant for the academic community but also essential for nascent entrepreneurs, policymakers and society at large.

Keywords: entrepreneurship education; entrepreneurial role models; perceived desirability; entrepreneurial desirability; perceived feasibility; entrepreneurial feasibility; entrepreneurial attitudes; structural equation modelling; SEM; Austria; Finland; Greece.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2017.083476

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2017 Vol.21 No.3, pp.274 - 290

Received: 01 Sep 2016
Accepted: 04 Oct 2016
Published online: 31 Mar 2017 *