ABSTRACT VIEW
Abstract NUM 2370

FROM CLASSROOMS TO STARTUPS: LINKING UNIVERSITY EDUCATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP LANDSCAPE
S. Maciukaite-Zviniene
Vilnius University Business School (LITHUANIA)
This study examines the relationship between formal entrepreneurship education and national entrepreneurial activity in Lithuania, using data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) and national higher education statistics. While GEM provides key indicators—such as early-stage activity, perceived capabilities, and entrepreneurial intention—the extent to which university-level programs influence these outcomes remains underexplored.

Focusing on postgraduate entrepreneurship programs offered between 2019 and 2024, we analyzed enrolment data, admission trends, graduation rates, and program expansion across Lithuanian universities. These metrics were assessed in relation to GEM indicators over the same period to explore potential associations between educational inputs and national entrepreneurial performance.

The results indicate a moderate but consistent correlation between higher enrolment in entrepreneurship-related programs and improvements in entrepreneurial intention and perceived capabilities among young adults. Notably, years with increased participation in postgraduate entrepreneurship studies coincided with elevated scores in opportunity recognition and early-stage activity. While the analysis does not establish causation, it suggests a positive association between academic exposure and national-level entrepreneurial engagement.

Additionally, the study highlights a diversification of entrepreneurship curricula, including interdisciplinary pathways that integrate technology, innovation, and sustainability. These developments align with Lithuania’s higher education policy priorities and broader European objectives to enhance employability and entrepreneurial skills.

By linking GEM findings with education system data, this research provides evidence on how structured academic programs may support national entrepreneurship ecosystems. The insights are relevant for policymakers, curriculum designers, and institutional leaders aiming to align higher education with economic innovation goals. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on university–industry collaboration and responds directly to ICERI’s focus on global challenges and educational transformation.

Keywords: Entrepreneurship Education, Higher Education, Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), Entrepreneurial Ecosystem.

Event: ICERI2025
Session: Entrepreneur­ship Education
Session time: Monday, 10th of November from 12:30 to 13:45
Session type: ORAL