Impact of Religious Values on the Entrepreneurship Mindset and Startup Success: Al-Hikmah University Perspective

Abstract

This study examined the impact of religious values on the entrepreneurship mindset and startup success of students: the Al-Hikmah University perspective. The study had three objectives, answered three research questions, and tested three hypotheses. Using a descriptive research design, the population of the study consisted of 1462 of all final-year students at Al-Hikmah University enrolled in entrepreneurship-related courses. A sample size of 150 students was selected through stratified random sampling. A structured questionnaire was developed as the main instrument for data collection, titled “Impact of Religious Values on the Entrepreneurship Mindset and Startup Success of Students Questionnaire (IRVEMSSQ), focusing on religious adherence, entrepreneurial orientation, and startup performance. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression models for testing hypotheses at a 0.05 significance level. Findings indicated that religious values do not have a significant influence on the entrepreneurial mindset of students, suggesting that factors such as practical business education, motivation, and exposure to entrepreneurial experiences play a more prominent role. Additionally, the study found no significant relationship between religious values and startup success, indicating that success in entrepreneurship is primarily driven by access to resources, financial literacy, mentorship, and strategic business planning rather than religious adherence. The study concluded that while religious values offer a moral and ethical framework, practical elements such as entrepreneurship education, financial resources, and industry support are more influential in fostering entrepreneurial success and ethical business practices. Recommendations include the need for Al-Hikmah University to expand its entrepreneurship programs, provide better access to mentorship and funding, and promote ethical business practices through both religious and secular ethical frameworks.