AI competence and Fintech entrepreneurship: a cross-cultural research in Vietnam and Poland

Purpose This study aims to investigate how artificial intelligence (AI) competence and FinTech entrepreneurial identity influence individuals’ intentions to engage in FinTech entrepreneurship, extending the theory of planned behavior. It explores how these factors interact with attitude and perceived behavioral control in two cultural contexts and examines whether distinct configurational combinations of these factors lead to high entrepreneurial intention. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 585 students in Vietnam and 532 students in Poland. Multiple linear regression and polynomial regression with response surface analysis were used to test the hypothesized relationships and assess both linear and congruence effects. Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis was additionally applied to identify equifinal combinations leading to high and low entrepreneurial intention. Findings AI competence enhanced FinTech entrepreneurial identity, attitude and perceived behavioral control in Vietnam, while in Poland it strengthened identity but reduced perceived control. FinTech entrepreneurial identity consistently reinforced attitude and perceived control, increasing entrepreneurial intention. Response surface analysis showed that intention was highest when attitude and perceived control were jointly strong. Configurational results indicate that entrepreneurial identity is a core condition across countries, whereas the role of competence varies by ecosystem maturity. Practical implications The results highlight the importance of fostering AI-related skills and FinTech identity development in entrepreneurship education and policy. Originality/value This study extends the theory of planned behavior by incorporating technology-oriented competence and identity, offering cross-cultural insights into FinTech entrepreneurship.