Entrepreneurs From High Uncertainty Avoidance Cultures: The Influence of International Study-Related Experience on Entrepreneurial Intentions

Abstract: Nowadays, entrepreneurship is acknowledged as a crucial factor for ensuring sustain-able economic growth and job generation. Entrepreneurship is a behavior that stems from a mindset which reflects an individual's drive and the ability to perceive an opportunity to create economic prosperity and wealth, also called entrepreneurial intentions. Some cul-tures and countries are more prone towards entrepreneurship than others due to cultural differences and social norms. Individuals from a culture with a preference for uncertainty avoidance are suggested to be less inclined towards entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial intentions which hinders economical activities and wealth creation. Based on a sample of 13 semi-structured interviews with German students and gradu-ates, this thesis determines the influence of international study-related experience on entre-preneurial intentions of students and graduates from a high uncertainty avoidance culture. Our results show clear evidence of the impact of international study-related experience on entrepreneurial intentions overcoming uncertainty avoidant traits. A conceptual framework developed as a result of the empirical findings illustrates the answer to the research ques-tion. Managerial implications refer to the awareness and importance of international study-related experience in order to foster and ensure entrepreneurship and wealth in a country. Especially countries with a preference for high uncertainty should promote purpose-driven and study-related experiences abroad.