Does religiosity affect entrepreneurial intention across countries?

PurposeThis study aims at analysing the influence of religiosity, entrepreneurial ecosystem (EES) and economic development (ED) on entrepreneurial behaviour across countries.Design/methodology/approachData from 54 countries on religiosity, entrepreneurial behaviour, EES and ED have been used for undertaking this research. Correlation, curve estimate and partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) have been utilised for analysing the relationship between the variables.FindingsFindings suggest a positive and significant correlation between religiosity, entrepreneurial intention (EI) and attitude towards entrepreneurship (ATE), and a negative and significant correlation between religiosity, EES, and ED. Similarly, the curve estimate indicates a positive and significant effect of religiosity on EI and attitude, and a negative and significant influence on EES and economic growth. Finally, the results of PLS-SEM show a significant and positive influence of religiosity on EI and ATE; no significant influence on the EES and an inverse influence on ED.Practical implicationsIt is evident from the analysis that religiosity has positive and significant impacts on EI and ATE, while having mixed implications for creation of a formal EES and bringing about ED. This implies that an increase in the level of religiosity in a country is more likely to enhance EI due to the creation of strong informal social networks.Originality/valueThe unique findings of this study would be useful for promoting entrepreneurship, EES and ED based on insights into the level of religiosity of a country.