Author(s)

Arjhel V. Domingo

College of Management and Business Technology, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Cabanatuan, The Philippines.

This study described the entrepreneurial journey of 23 college entrepreneurship students of Nueva Ecija University and Science and Technology, Philippines, who have established small businesses amid pandemic. This study utilized a descriptive method of research and used questionnaire and a semi-structured interview guide as research instruments. The study revealed that the student’s preparedness to start a business had been attributed to the entrepreneurship education they have gained from their course. Gaining financial wealth while still studying has been the top factor that motivated students to engage in business. By establishing their small businesses, they have gained moderately to a high level of personal entrepreneurial competencies. Peer mentorship and attendance to free webinars have helped them improve their businesses. Time management, strict compliance to safety and health protocols, and community lockdowns have challenged students in their business operations. The study recommends that the university must continue offering a relevant entrepreneurship education curriculum and make it relevant to the needs of the times. The Philippines government must extend its assistance to entrepreneurship students to help them thrive as successful entrepreneurs.

COVID-19, Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Competencies, Small Business, Motivation

Domingo, A. (2022) Starting a Small Business amidst COVID-19: The Entrepreneurial Journey of Entrepreneurship Students in Nueva Ecija, Philippines. Open Journal of Social Sciences, 10, 196-212. doi: 10.4236/jss.2022.106016.