Unraveling Pathways to Entrepreneurial Success among Recent Chinese College Graduates: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis

Abstract In the context of burgeoning interest in entrepreneurship among recent Chinese college graduates, the disappointingly low success rate of startups has prompted a critical inquiry. This study endeavors to delve into the factors shaping entrepreneurial success, aiming to illuminate pathways for addressing this pervasive issue. Employing the csQCA method, we analyze 23 cases of successful entrepreneurship, revealing a nuanced and intricate interplay of factors that challenges simplistic narratives in prior research. The analysis unveils five distinct pathways to success: “Environmental Incentive,” “Motivation,” “Platform Assistance,” “Policy Support,” and “Demand.” Notably, the first two pathways significantly shape pre-graduation success, while the latter three become prominent in the post-graduation phase. We also find that entrepreneurship education and self-fulfillment emerge as key elements leading to success before graduation, while social relationships and self-fulfillment play pivotal roles after graduation. Furthermore, technology emerges as the predominant field drawing the interest of startups, followed by culture and academia. These findings not only deepen our understanding of the complex entrepreneurial landscape but also provide valuable insights for future research and policy considerations.