Efficacy of Entrepreneurial Training Programs: Do They Make a Difference for Experienced Entrepreneurs?

Abstract

Though pervasive and popular, entrepreneurial training programs do not have a systemized, established approach for evaluating their efficacy. Therefore, the effectiveness of the programs is not well understood, and the need to assess entrepreneurial training for experienced entrepreneurs is pressing. This study’s objective was to provide a strategy to use in judging entrepreneurial training efficacy employing frameworks and models available in entrepreneurial training and education, as well as organizational and management theories, such as the Theory of Planned Behavior. The research question was, "What is the efficacy of entrepreneurial training programs for experienced business owners." A conceptual model and propositions are presented as an inductive approach for future programs, along with the research findings on the efficacy of an entrepreneurial training program from the perspective of experienced business owners. The contribution of the study towards developing effective entrepreneurial training programs for experienced business owners is explored.

Keywords: entrepreneurial training, entrepreneurial training programs, efficacy, effectiveness, evaluation, experienced business owners

JEL Classification: M13, M1, M53