Unpacking Entrepreneurial intention: A systematic Review, Antecedents, Outcomes and an agenda for Future Research

Entrepreneurial intention an affective and cognitive state leading to entrepreneurial behavior has provided a cornerstone of research in the entrepreneurship literature, as it has been demonstrated both theoretically and empirically to be an important predictor of new venture creation and economic growth. This systematic review uses a contemporary database (Scopus) to examine literature on entrepreneurial intention spanning from 2000 to 2023, mapping the evolution and breadth of research in this area whilst also establishing a future structured agenda for inquiry. Based on over 30 papers reviewed and integrated we conclude that the interest in entrepreneurial intention research has increased across a number of different levels both, from more individual psychological determinants to area based socio-economic characteristics. The review finds that broad themes emerge when viewing the literature: (1) psychological variables including self-efficacy, risk tolerance and intrinsic motivation are consistent, significant predictors of entrepreneurial intention across populations; (2) role of education: experiential learning affects intention more than formal lectures and courses, while institutional support at the university level is a possible driver; (3 demographics/culture: gender, age, social capital and national cultural norms modulate entrepreneurial intent; and (4) environment: economic conditions affecting demand for entrepreneurship face or follower policy support, access to low-cost technology facilitate entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems. Traditional theorizing is still strongly rooted in established models such as Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Shapero’s Entrepreneurial Event Model (EEM). Recent work, however, has presented interdisciplinary frameworks that incorporate psychological, sociological and economical aspects of entrepreneurial intention suggesting a move towards more comprehensive multi-dimensional models (Shah et al. 2018). The previous quantitative orientation in research has evolved towards a more balanced application of qualitative and mixed-method studies, thus reflecting different views on the complexity and contextually involved in entrepreneurial intention. This review identifies important research gaps, especially on the unexplored facets of entrepreneurial intention for minority and marginalized groups as well as in emerging economies, where entrepreneurship is increasingly being regarded as a vehicle of socio-economic change.