The Role of Entrepreneurial Passion and Creativity in Entrepreneurial Intention: A Hierarchical Analysis of the Moderating Effect of Entrepreneurial Support Programs

Abstract

Based on the MOA (Motivation - Opportunity - Ability) model framework, a hierarchical model is built and the application of the self-efficacy theory is discussed in relation entrepreneurial passion, creativity and entrepreneurial intention in Chinese university graduate students. The results of questionnaire surveys from 1057 students and 238 members of the faculty show that entrepreneurial passion and creativity positively influence entrepreneurial intention, and that entrepreneurial self-efficacy partly mediates the above relationship. The questionnaire results also reveal that entrepreneurial support programs positively moderate the relationship between entrepreneurial passion and entrepreneurial self-efficacy but negatively moderate the relationship between creativity and entrepreneurial self-efficacy. Based on empirical research, this paper provides a way forward to improving entrepreneurial intention for graduate students. Keywords: Entrepreneurial intention, Entrepreneurial passion, Creativity, Entrepreneurial support programs, Entrepreneurial self-efficac