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Entrepreneurial Profiles, Sustainability, and Key Determinants of Business Trajectories in a Regional Context: Evidence from a NUTS 2 Region in an EU Country

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  • Ionela Gavrilă-Paven

    (Faculty of Economics, “1 Decembrie 1918” University of Alba Iulia, 510009 Alba Iulia, Romania)

  • Ruxandra Lazea

    (Faculty of Economics, “1 Decembrie 1918” University of Alba Iulia, 510009 Alba Iulia, Romania)

  • Anca Nichita

    (Faculty of Economics, “1 Decembrie 1918” University of Alba Iulia, 510009 Alba Iulia, Romania)

  • Ramona Giurea

    (Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550024 Sibiu, Romania)

  • Elena Cristina Rada

    (Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Insubria University, 21100 Varese, Italy)

Abstract

Understanding the entrepreneurial profile is essential for developing effective regional policies that promote business growth. The path of an entrepreneur is shaped not only by individual decisions but also by the inherent risks of managing a business. This study aims to identify the characteristics of entrepreneurs at the regional level, specifically highlighting the impact of accumulated experience in their fields. Our central hypothesis asserts that entrepreneurial experience significantly influences how business owners perceive and respond to economic challenges. Utilizing survey data from 120 entrepreneurs in Romania’s Center Region (a NUTS 2 area), we reveal that entrepreneurial experience profoundly affects perceptions of key business challenges, such as legislative instability, taxation predictability, governmental support strategies, and access to SME financing. Importantly, our findings demonstrate that entrepreneurs with less than 10 years of experience express greater concerns about these challenges compared to their more seasoned peers. This novel insight highlights the need for tailored policy interventions aimed at enhancing regional economic resilience and fostering entrepreneurial sustainability. By addressing the specific needs of less experienced entrepreneurs, our study contributes to a deeper understanding of how experience shapes business dynamics in the region.

Suggested Citation

  • Ionela Gavrilă-Paven & Ruxandra Lazea & Anca Nichita & Ramona Giurea & Elena Cristina Rada, 2025. "Entrepreneurial Profiles, Sustainability, and Key Determinants of Business Trajectories in a Regional Context: Evidence from a NUTS 2 Region in an EU Country," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-18, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:15:p:7033-:d:1716290
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