Entrepreneurship Mindset and Startup Ecosystem Development in Tertiary Institutions in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between entrepreneurial mindset and startup ecosystem development within tertiary institutions in Oyo State, Nigeria. Against the backdrop of persistent youth unemployment, Nigerian tertiary institutions are increasingly positioned as critical drivers of entrepreneurial orientation and innovation. Entrepreneurial mindset, defined by creativity, resilience, risk-taking, and opportunity recognition, is essential for converting student ideas into viable ventures. However, the extent of its interaction with institutional ecosystems comprising mentorship, funding, policy support, and incubation facilitiesremains underexplored in this context. Employing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 300 final-year students randomly selected from five purposively chosen universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.