Gen-Z Entrepreneurial Intentions: Exploring the Impact of Risk, Achievement Needs, and Social Media Engagement

Abstract

This research explores the relationship between risk-taking propensity, need for achievement, social media engagement, attitudes toward entrepreneurship, and entrepreneurial intention among Gen-Z entrepreneurs in Banyumas Purwokerto. Gen-Z, known for their digital fluency and innovative outlook, presents unique insights into entrepreneurial intention, making them a compelling focus for this study. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the Partial Least Square (PLS) approach, selected for its ability to handle complex models with mediating effects, the study surveyed 150 participants. Findings reveal that risk-taking propensity, need for achievement, and social media engagement significantly and positively influence entrepreneurial intention. Additionally, attitudes toward entrepreneurship mediate these effects, highlighting the role of mindset in translating individual characteristics into entrepreneurial ambitions. Practical implications suggest that educators, policymakers, and business mentors can enhance entrepreneurial intention by fostering supportive environments that nurture these traits and positively shape attitudes toward entrepreneurship among Gen-Z.