Student-entrepreneurship in Flanders
Abstract
Despite an increase in the number of student entrepreneurs, Flanders lags behind the international average in the relative percentage of bachelor, master and PhD students intending to start their own business. With this research proposal, we support the formulation of targeted policy proposals to further stimulate and support student entrepreneurship. We do this through two research tracks:
(1) A qualitative research track, in which we develop an initial study (Study 1) that offers in-depth information and hands-on proposals for encouraging and supporting student entrepreneurship in higher education institutes. Based on an analysis of (inter)national best practices, we develop one or several ideal types which can serve as a blueprint for Flemish educational institutes and their entrepreneurship centres.
(2) A quantitative research track, in which we develop a second study (Study 2) that allows us to (a) start collecting panel data to track both entrepreneurial and non-entrepreneurial Flemish higher education students, (b) map the entrepreneurial activities and intentions of Flemish higher education students, and (c) compare the entrepreneurial activities and intentions of Flemish higher education students with international data. In doing so, we lay the groundwork for understanding why and how higher education students start or quit their business, and what the motivations to do so of current student entrepreneurs and current non-entrepreneurs are. In addition, the construction of a Flemish panel dataset is unique. It allows us to support policy in a targeted way over time; it allows us to map longer-term evolutions in the entrepreneurial activities of Flemish (former) students.
Funding agency
Vlaamse regering / Flemish Government (ECOOM-STORE project)
Researchers
- Prof. dr. Johanna Vanderstraeten (promoter)
- Prof. dr. Hendrik Slabbinck (promoter)
- Dr. Erika Branca
- Eugénie Delzenne (PhD student)
- Riyaad Ismail (PhD student)