The Effect of Relational Support on Entrepreneurial Motivation of Japanese University Students: Focused on Mediating Effect of Entrepreneurial Self－Efficacy

[Purpose] The aim of this empirical study is to explore the entrepreneurial potency of Japanese university students. We focused on three variables that were suggested as essential elements in entrepreneurial process; relational support, entrepreneurial self－efficacy and entrepreneurial motivation. [Methodology] The analysis method for study was based on the hierarchical multiple regression analysis using PASW Statistic 18. Total 230 university students participated in the study from three universities; Rikkyo, Tamagawa and Surugadai university. [Findings] Relational support has positive relationship with entrepreneurial motivation and entrepreneurial self－efficacy. Entrepreneurial self－efficacy has also positive relationship with entrepreneurial motivation. Mediating role of entrepreneurial self－efficacy is verified, too. [Implications] The findings of this study contributed to generalization of the entrepreneurship theory by extending the research to the setting of Japanese university students and attesting the key variables empirically.