Author(s): Wenceslao. Mechle F,
This study explores the development of business knowledge among undergraduate students in Koronadal City, focusing on equipping them with the foundational knowledge necessary to initiate small business ventures. Employing a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, the research integrates quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon. The quantitative component included structured surveys completed by 385 undergraduate students, measuring their business knowledge levels and identifying key challenges. The qualitative component involved in-depth interviews with 10 participants, which explored personal experiences, motivations, and barriers to acquiring entrepreneurial knowledge. The quantitative analysis revealed moderate levels of business knowledge among students, highlighting deficiencies in financial management and market research. Key challenges identified include limited access to resources, inadequate support systems, and insufficient exposure to entrepreneurial education. The qualitative analysis uncovered critical themes such as the importance of mentorship, practical training, and institutional support in fostering entrepreneurial development. Verbatim responses provided context and illustrated the significant barriers students face, with English translations included for vernacular responses. The integration of quantitative and qualitative findings emphasizes the need for targeted interventions. Recommendations include developing structured entrepreneurship programs, incorporating community-based mentorship, and enhancing collaboration between educational institutions and local policymakers. These initiatives aim to address gaps in business knowledge and create a supportive ecosystem for aspiring entrepreneurs. This study contributes to the discourse on entrepreneurial education, offering actionable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with empowering undergraduate students to pursue entrepreneurship. By addressing these challenges through targeted strategies, this research advocates for sustainable practices that nurture entrepreneurial aspirations, ultimately fostering economic growth and innovation within local communities.