7.1. Entrepreneurial culture and activities in Flanders

By Jolien Roelandt (UGent) en Petra Andries (UGent)

This section examines societal and individual perceptions of entrepreneurship as well as actual start-up activities in Flanders.
Based on a survey of a representative sample of approximately 1,000 residents of Flanders aged 18 to 64, an overview is provided of the entrepreneurial culture and activities in the region.

Section 7.1.1 presents the societal perception of entrepreneurship, which is assessed based on four key indicators: the extent to which entrepreneurship is regarded as a desirable career choice, the perceived status and respect associated with entrepreneurs, the degree of media attention devoted to entrepreneurship, and the presence of entrepreneurs within one’s personal network.

Section 7.1.2 examines the individual perception of entrepreneurship among the general population in Flanders. This perception is measured using three indicators: the ability to identify entrepreneurial opportunities (opportunity recognition), confidence in one’s entrepreneurial capabilities (self-efficacy), and the degree to which fear of failure may act as a barrier to entrepreneurial engagement.

Section 7.1.3 reports on the entrepreneurial activity of the average Flemish respondent, distinguishing between nascent entrepreneurship (i.e., individuals in the process of starting a business) and new entrepreneurship (i.e., individuals who have recently established a business). In addition, the indicator of intrapreneurship—entrepreneurial behavior within established organizations—is discussed.

Section 7.1.4 explores the investment behavior of Flemish individuals with regard to new businesses. Specifically, it examines the extent to which individuals have invested financially in a start-up founded by someone else within the past three years.