The Role of Motivation, Ability, and Opportunity in Entrepreneurial Intentions in the Import-Export Business: Evidence from Early Adulthood
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The objective of this research is to examine the role of motivation, ability, and opportunity in entrepreneurial intentions in the import-export business of early adulthood by applying the MAO (Motivation, Ability, and Opportunity) framework to develop a causal relationship model. Using quantitative research methodology, data were collected through questionnaires from 482 respondents aged 18 - 30 years and analyzed using structural equation modeling. The findings showed that opportunity had the highest direct effect on entrepreneurial intention (β = 0.486), followed by motivation (β = 0.427) and ability (β = 0.315). Additionally, indirect effects of opportunity and ability through motivation were identified. The model explained 68.3 percent of the variance in entrepreneurial intention. These findings have significant theoretical and practical implications, highlighting the importance of an integrated development approach that encompasses creating concrete business opportunities, developing essential skills, and enhancing entrepreneurial motivation to effectively and sustainably promote the development of new-generation entrepreneurs in the import-export business.
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