Fostering startup projects through Business Incubation Centers in universities

This study examines the role of Business Incubation Centers (BICs) in promoting startup projects within universities, with a focus on how government policies affect this relationship. A conceptual model was developed to evaluate how BIC services, such as infrastructure, training, financial and managerial support, contribute to entrepreneurship. Data was gathered through a survey distributed to 450 university participants, of which 228 responses were complete and valid for analysis using Smart PLS 4.0. The results show that BICs play a significant role in supporting new business activity, especially when government policies are effective. The study also highlights that financial incentives, institutional support and regulatory improvements strengthen the impact of BICs. This study develops and validates a multidimensional framework of business incubation in an emerging economy. Also, business incubation support significantly enhances entrepreneurship development in Pakistani universities. Study findings offer policy and managerial insights for strengthening university-based incubation ecosystems. Better incubation ecosystems in universities can help in creating jobs, making the youth employable and participate in economic activities inclusively by letting students and other people in early-stage entrepreneurship start up project’s viable businesses.