EXPLORING THE NATURE AND IMPACT OF GESTATION-SPECIFIC HUMAN CAPITAL AMONG NASCENT ENTREPRENEURS

Monica Diochon (), Teresa V. Menzies and Yvon Gasse
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Monica Diochon: Schwartz School of Business Administration and Information Systems, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada B2G 2W5, Canada
Teresa V. Menzies: Faculty of Business, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada L2S 3A1, Canada
Yvon Gasse: Faculté des sciences de l'administration, Université Laval, Sainte-Foy, PQ, Canada G1K 7P4, Canada

Journal of Developmental Entrepreneurship (JDE), 2008, vol. 13, issue 02, 151-165

Abstract: This article explores the nature and impact of gestation-specific human capital on successful start-up among a random sample of Canadian nascent entrepreneurs. Although much is known about the relationship between individual-level factors and the probability of becoming a nascent entrepreneur, the same cannot be said for the relationship between individual-level factors and success in starting a business. Previous studies of existing business founders indicate that general human capital (education and work experience) plays a role in opportunity identification, but at best plays a very weak role in opportunity pursuit. In light of these findings we sought to identify elements of human capital that would be specific to gestation–previous start-up experience, completion of classes or workshops in starting a business, and financial management capability (FMC). In documenting these elements, we found the majority of the sample had not taken any classes or workshops on starting a business, were novices to the start-up process, and were characterized by a wide range of financial management capability. Among those nascent entrepreneurs who succeeded in starting a business, FMC was found to be associated with sustainability. We conclude by discussing implications for researchers.

Keywords: Nascent entrepreneurs; financial management capability; gestation-specific human capital; new venture creation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2008
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (10)

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DOI: 10.1142/S1084946708000909

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