Explicative Factors for Entrepreneurial Intention in Women: Gender Differentials Amongst the University Population

The aim of this research project is to shed some light on the reasons why women are less likely to get involved in the processes of setting up businesses. To do this, a structural equations model has been developed, identifying a series of variables that can explain entrepreneurial intention amongst the potentially entrepreneurial population. The model has been validated by carrying out a survey amongst 1,222 students studying 12 different degree courses at the University of Malaga, Spain. In applying the model to both the male and female populations, significant differences have been found in the patterns of behaviour of the two sexes, with women undergoing a more complex process than men, and requiring external support.