Antecedents and boundary conditions of entrepreneurial intentions: perspective of theory of planned behaviour

Purpose This paper aims to examine the effects of perceived desirability for entrepreneurship (PDE) and perceived self-efficacy (PSE) on the entrepreneurial intentions (EI) of business students, with the moderation effect of entrepreneurial knowledge (EK) in the context of the theory of planned behaviour. Design/methodology/approach We used a self-administered survey of 200 students registered in the business schools of Pakistani universities. The causal association between the variables was estimated through SmartPLS by using hierarchal linear modelling. Findings The study findings indicate that PDE and PSE significantly influence EIs. Furthermore, EK significantly strengthens the nexus between PDE and EIs and between PSE and EIs. Those students who had already acquired self-efficacy and exhibited desirability for the business venture were more inclined towards entrepreneurship if they had acquired some EK and vice versa. Research limitations/implications This study reveals that a model of EIs is needed to configure the students’ goals and motivations. Also, using new education programmes will help students acquire new knowledge for business startups. Further implications are also discussed. Originality/value This research fills a gap by using the moderating role of EK on the nexus between PDE, PSE and EIs, which has remained untouched in the educational sector.