Entrepreneurial Ecosystem and Skills: Inputs to a Business Incubation Plan

This study assessed the entrepreneurial ecosystem and entrepreneurial skills of Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship students at a state university in Manila, Philippines, as inputs to a business incubation plan. Using a descriptive-survey design, data were collected from 217 of 270 enrolled students (80.37%) through a validated questionnaire measuring ecosystem dimensions (mentorship, training programs, access to resources, networking opportunities, and funding support) and skills domains (financial management, marketing, and management). Descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-tests, and correlation analysis were applied. Results indicated moderate proficiency in entrepreneurial skills (overall mean = 2.81), with management skills highest (2.97) and financial management skills lowest (2.65). The entrepreneurial ecosystem was rated moderately available (overall mean = 2.63), with training programs highest (2.72) and funding support lowest (2.49). Positive and statistically significant associations were observed between all ecosystem components and entrepreneurial skills, with comparatively stronger relationships noted for mentorship and funding support. Overall, the findings suggest that while students demonstrate foundational competencies, gaps in ecosystem support—particularly in funding—may constrain entrepreneurial readiness. The proposed incubation plan aligns interventions in mentorship, targeted training, resource access, networking, and financial support with the observed areas of weakness and strength.