An inquiry into the linkages between university ecosystem and students' entrepreneurial intention and self-efficacy

The purpose of this article is to evaluate the impact of university ecosystems on entrepreneurial intention and self-efficacy of Brazilian undergraduate students. The empirical exercise relies on Structural Equations Modelling based on data of 468 students from 70 universities across the country. Results indicate that traditional approaches to foment entrepreneurship are less effective than nurturing linkages between universities and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem, and that private universities are more effective in promoting entrepreneurial behaviour. From a practical standpoint, our assessment suggests the need for universities to approach entrepreneurial education in a more flexible way, fostering interactions with businesses.