Key Factors in the Transition from Intention to Entrepreneurial Action Among Young Graduates: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Entrepreneurship is widely recognised as a key driver of job creation, innovation, and economic development. However, despite strong entrepreneurial intention among young graduates, only a limited proportion succeeds in transforming this intention into concrete entrepreneurial action, highlighting the need to better understand determinants underlying this transition. This study aims to identify and systematise key factors influencing the transition from entrepreneurial intention to entrepreneurial action among young graduates. The research is based on a systematic literature review conducted in accordance with the PRISMA methodology to ensure rigorous and transparent selection of relevant studies. The dataset includes 489 articles identified in the Web of Science and Scopus databases, from which 16 studies were retained after applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The analysis identifies the central role of individual and psychological determinants, including entrepreneurial self-efficacy, motivation, personal attitudes, perceived behavioural control, self-confidence, and desire for independence. Contextual determinants, such as access to financing, administrative simplification, family support, role models, entrepreneurial education, mentoring, informal learning, and exposure to supportive entrepreneurial environments, are also shown to significantly shape the transition process. The findings provide an evidence-based synthesis supporting policymakers, educators, and researchers in developing strategies to strengthen inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystems.