This paper examines the effect of curricular and extracurricular activities on the entrepreneurial motivation and competences of university students. In order to address these issues, the authors have used Ajzen's model of planned behaviour, including curricular and extracurricular activities, analysing their effect on university students’ attitude and behavioural control and their entrepreneurial intention as well as competences. Using a convenience sample of university students, we chose two Spanish institutions, with a total sample size of 1475 students. The analysis demonstrates the effects of curricular and extracurricular activities on the entrepreneurial intention of university students. Such activities generate positive attitudes for entrepreneurship but at the same time they lower capacity and intention to start a business. Similarly, the study shows the different effects of such variables on the competencies for entrepreneurship. Strategic and methodological implications of these results are discussed.
This study examines the integration of digital and circular economy (CE) strategies in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and their impact on innovation. The research uses data from the Eurobarometer survey conducted by the European Commission, which includes a sample of 16,365 SMEs. Using a combination of regression analysis and machine learning tools, the results indicate that a high degree of digitalisation within SMEs enhances the integration of a CE orientation. However, it is not necessary for SMEs with advanced CE orientations to have high levels of digitalisation. Additionally, the study finds variability in the integration of digital and CE orientations among SMEs, identifying four distinct groups of companies with differing levels of compatibility. Moreover, SMEs that successfully integrate both digital and CE orientations are more likely to innovate, whereas those with poor integration exhibit a lower probability of innovation. These findings offer crucial insights for managers and policymakers aiming to bolster SME innovation, digitalisation and sustainability. The research underscores the need for a balanced integration of digital and CE orientations to enhance innovation and environmental impact in SMEs.