Influence of Family and Social Environment on the Entrepreneurial Intentions of People from Generations Y And Z

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of family and social environments on the entrepreneurial intentions of individuals from Generations Y and Z, emphasizing the significance of intergenerational relationships in shaping entrepreneurial mindsets. The research is grounded in a systematic review of contemporary academic literature, as well as original empirical data collected through a survey conducted among 224 students at the D. A. Tsenov Academy of Economics during the 2023–2024 academic year. The findings reveal a strong predisposition toward entrepreneurship among young individuals, with a pronounced preference for launching ventures in cooperation with family members. Notably, respondents demonstrate high levels of autonomy while still valuing the tangible and emotional support of their immediate social circles. The study identifies diverse patterns of entrepreneurial collaboration, highlighting a strategic orientation toward both innovation and continuity through intergenerational business initiatives. These insights contribute to the broader discourse on entrepreneurial ecosystems by providing an empirically grounded perspective on how generational dynamics and familial capital intersect in shaping entrepreneurial intentions. UDC: 316.4.063:334.72-053.6; JEL: A20, L 26