Entrepreneurship is increasingly seen as a strategic option for scientists, especially in fields with high innovation potential such as chemistry. Statistically, however, chemistry students are less likely to start their own businesses than their peers in other disciplines. This study examines the relationship between financial security and entrepreneurial intentions among chemistry students in Germany and Poland. Building on the theory of planned behaviour and the framework concept of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, the analysis examines how various dimensions of financial security – including personal income, savings and access to credit – influence students' willingness to start a business. A comparative survey was conducted in both countries. To ensure cross-country comparability, financial data was normalized using purchasing power parities (PPPs). Ordinal regression and ANOVA analyses revealed that subjective perceptions of financial security had a significant influence on entrepreneurial intentions in Germany, while absolute financial indicators were less relevant in both samples. The sample consisted of 58 chemistry students (29 from Germany, 29 from Poland) enrolled in bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral programs, selected across different departments and study locations. Cultural and institutional differences were discussed as influencing factors. The study highlights the need for tailored programs to promote entrepreneurship that address both material and perceived financial barriers. The limitations of the sample size and methodological challenges are acknowledged, and directions for future research are suggested.

Keywords: Chempreneurs, entrepreneurship, education, transfer.