Empowering Future Entrepreneurs: Industry Awareness, Perceived Barriers, and Entrepreneurial Intentions of BTLED-IA Students

This study investigates the awareness, perceived barriers, and entrepreneurial intentions of Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education – Industrial Arts (BTLED-IA) students at Bulacan State University. Despite the significant role of entrepreneurship in economic growth, many BTLED-IA students are unaware of the entrepreneurial opportunities within local industries. Data were collected through structured surveys and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics within a quantitative descriptive research design. The findings reveal that students have moderate awareness of local industries (Mean = 3.38), with economic constraints (Mean = 3.26) and access to resources (Mean = 3.50) as the primary obstacles. Moreover, exposure to industry positively influences students’ confidence in pursuing entrepreneurship. Information dissemination programs were particularly effective in enhancing awareness and entrepreneurial aspirations (Mean = 3.79). The study recommends the implementation of industry exposure programs, mentorship opportunities, and curriculum enhancements to align technical education with entrepreneurial mindsets and real-world needs, thereby fostering future entrepreneurs within Bulacan’s industrial society.