Shaping entrepreneurial mindset through local cultural orientation and multicultural learning: intercultural sensitivity and global thinking orientation as moderators

Purpose Universities are increasingly focusing on nurturing students' entrepreneurial spirit, but the culture that fosters it in multicultural academic settings remains under-researched. Drawing on cultural intelligence theory (CIT), a conceptual model is developed that links local cultural orientation (LCO), a multicultural learning environment (MLE) and an entrepreneurial mindset (EM). Further, the moderating effects of intercultural sensitivity (ICS) and global thinking orientation (GTO) on the relationships were explored. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected through a cross-sectional survey of 624 students in higher education institutions in Southern India. After checking the measurement model, the structural model was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling with Smart PLS 4.1.1.7. Findings The findings indicate that (1) LCO and MLE are positively related to entrepreneurial mindset, (2) ICS moderated the relationship between LCO and MLE, (3) GTO moderates the relationship between LCO and entrepreneurial mindset and (4) GTO moderates the relationship between MLE and entrepreneurial mindset. The findings did not show any relationship between LCO and MLE. This study underscores the importance of LCO and MLE in influencing the entrepreneurial mindset. Originality/value The findings contribute to the CIT by illustrating the interaction effects of ICS and GTO in hypothesized relationships. This study provides useful insights for curriculum developers in academic institutions on strategies to develop entrepreneurial mindset among culturally diverse student groups. To the best of our knowledge, the conceptual model developed and tested is the first of its kind, particularly in the context of a large developing country, India.