The Impact of Business Incubators on Fostering Entrepreneurial Orientation Among University Students: A Case Study of the Faculty of Economic Sciences, University of El Oued

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of business incubators in fostering entrepreneurial orientation among master's and doctoral students at the Faculty of Economic Sciences, University of El Oued. It examines key dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation, including innovativeness, autonomy, proactiveness, competitive aggressiveness, and risk-taking propensity. The study is significant in that it highlights the role of university-based business incubators as a crucial element in shaping students’ entrepreneurial awareness and addresses the question of how incubators influence this orientation.

The findings indicate a strong awareness among students of the importance of business incubators, along with a positive impact on the various dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation. The highest scores were observed in the dimension of proactiveness, while a relatively lower score was noted in risk-taking. Based on these findings, the study recommends strengthening mentorship programs within incubators, integrating entrepreneurship education into academic curricula, and expanding both financial and technical support services. It also advocates for enhanced collaboration between the university and both public and private sector entities to support the realization of student-led projects.