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Abstract
This study aims to explore the relationship between financial literacy, credit availability, microfinance programs, digital financial services, and Entrepreneurship intention. Specifically, it seeks to identify how different dimensions of financial inclusion namely financial literacy, credit availability, microfinance programs, and digital financial services influence Entrepreneurship intention among youth. A quantitative research approach was employed, collecting data from 384 youth participants in Butwal Sub-Metropolitan City using a structured questionnaire. Convenience sampling was utilized to select respondents. The data were analyzed using PLS-SEM software, incorporating various techniques such as measurement model assessment, model fit evaluation, Importance-Performance Map Analysis (IPMA), and bootstrapping for hypothesis testing. The results indicate that key dimensions of financial inclusion (digital financial services, financial literacy, and insurance) are significant predictors of Entrepreneurship intention among youth. The findings highlight that digital financial services, financial literacy, and insurance substantially contribute to Entrepreneurship intention among youth. Therefore, stakeholders including local government bodies, financial institutions, and entrepreneurship development centers in Butwal Sub-Metropolitan City should prioritize these factors to foster Entrepreneurship intention. By understanding and revising policies based on these insights, there is a greater potential to enhance youth entrepreneurship in the region.
Keywords: Financial Inclusion, Entrepreneurship intention, Digital Financial service, financial literacy, Youth Entrepreneurship.