From Intention to Action: Exploring Returnee Entrepreneurship in Vietnam

Abstract: The objective of this research is to explore returnee entrepreneurship, specifically focusing on individuals who studied abroad and started a new venture in their home country. By investigating the entrepreneurial dynamics among returnees, this study seeks to gain a deeper understanding of this specific phenomenon. To gather comprehensive and insightful data, a qualitative study with semi-structured interviews was conducted with a diverse sample of eight returnee entrepreneurs from Vietnam who pursued their studies in six different countries. Through a qualitative analysis that includes both inductive and deductive approaches, valuable insights into the interplay of entrepreneurial intention, opportunity recognition, and motivational influences emerged. The empirical findings highlight the significance of opportunity recognition on returnee entrepreneurial intention. Furthermore, the study uncovers the fundamental link between intention and action, driven by intrinsic and extrinsic motivations. These findings enrich the existing knowledge in this field and carry implications for policymakers and future research initiatives focused on supporting and fostering returnee entrepreneurship.