Addressing 21st Century Competencies Challenges Through Project-Based Entrepreneurial Learning: A Systemic Approach

Today’s globalized economic system and the growing competition for human talent worldwide will test university graduates’ competencies to perform jobs that do not yet exist. Positioned as a catalyst for project-based entrepreneurial learning, Business Plan Competitions (BPCs) serve as a valuable learning experience that effectively prepares students for the interrelated systems of the 21st century, which are complementary and contradictory. The research objective was to evaluate key factors that enhance BPC participants’ competency utilization and overall success by exploring winners and non-winners’ cognitive abilities, personal traits, and occupational interests. Statistically significant results were found for Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Emotional stability, and General learning ability, with higher averages observed among winners. Additionally, alongside General learning ability, Social interest emerged as predictors of performance in the BPC. Our study advances knowledge in entrepreneurial education research by applying systems thinking to foster its efficacy, with a competency development focus. The results can practically guide educators and policymakers in designing and implementing improved project-based entrepreneurial education programs.