Analysis of the Innosuisse start-up training in a Theory of Planned Behavior framework

Abstract

The present paper analyzes the Innosuisse start-up training program in an empirically well-tested socio-psychological model, the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). The aim is to answer the question, whether the training modules (aiming at high-tech start-ups) enhance the participants’ intention to found a business, and which determinants contribute to a change in this intention. Data has been collected in three consecutive surveys for all courses offered in the years 2016 and 2017. The estimation results indicate that those who feel empowered show a higher intention, while others realize during the course that a business foundation is not what they really want (at that point of time). The largest impact on the change in the intentions to found a business comes from the perceived behavioral control of the participants, i.e. the knowledge about running a business; to a somewhat lesser extent, but still significantly positive, is the perceived social support. Overall, the Innosuisse start-up training helps student and university members to come to a more informed decision in favor or against a potential business formation and to develop their skills and knowledge.