Motivation to Lead and Entrepreneurial Intention among University Students: The Mediating Role of Individual Entrepreneurial Orientation

Abstract

Abstract– The study aimed to analyze the effect of motivation to lead on entrepreneurial intention, considering the mediating role of individual entrepreneurial orientation, among university students in Lambayeque (Peru). The research scope was explanatory, and a PLS-SEM model was estimated using a convenience sample of 438 students (2025-II semester). The reflective constructs were measured with an adapted 24-item questionnaire (5-point Likert scale), and reliability, convergent and discriminant validity (HTMT), as well as collinearity (VIF), were assessed. The results showed adequate psychometric quality (loadings = 0.705–0.842; α = 0.907–0.922; AVE = 0.607–0.647) and considerable explanatory power (R2 = 0.589 for individual entrepreneurial orientation; R2 = 0.663 for entrepreneurial intention). Positive and significant effects were confirmed: motivation to lead → individual entrepreneurial orientation (β = 0.767; p < 0.001), individual entrepreneurial orientation → entrepreneurial intention (β = 0.479; p < 0.001), and motivation to lead → entrepreneurial intention (β = 0.386; p < 0.001), along with a complementary partial mediation (indirect β = 0.368; p < 0.001). It was concluded that motivation to lead operated as a key antecedent of entrepreneurial dispositions and intention. It was recommended to strengthen university programs that integrate leadership for innovation, experiential learning, mentoring/incubation, and access to networks and seed capital.