The mediating effect of individual capital in the relationship between entrepreneurship education and social entrepreneurship intentions

Purpose This study examines the impact of entrepreneurship education on the social entrepreneurship intentions of undergraduate students with a focus on the mediating effects of individual capital, such as human, social and cultural capital. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a quantitative approach with data collected from 392 third- and fourth-year students studying at a private university in Vietnam through a self-administered survey. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. Findings The results show that entrepreneurship education positively impacts the social entrepreneurship intentions of undergraduate students. Furthermore, this study reveals that social and cultural capital serve as mediators in this relationship, whereas the mediating role of human capital was not supported. Practical implications The study findings highlight the crucial role of higher education institutions in promoting and implementing formal entrepreneurship education. It also emphasises the importance of supporting enhancement of students' individual capital through social and cultural activities to foster their intentions to engage in social entrepreneurship. Originality/value This study adds to the current literature on social entrepreneurship intentions by highlighting the significance of entrepreneurship education provided by universities and the roles of individual capital, such as social and cultural capital, in mediating the impact of entrepreneurship education on social entrepreneurship intentions.