Effect of innovation incubators on strategic entrepreneurship in selected nigerian universities

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of innovation incubators on strategic entrepreneurship in selected Nigerian universities within the North Central region. Specifically, it examines how incubator participation influences Opportunity Recognition (OR), Competitive Advantage Development (CAD), and Venture Growth (VG) among university entrepreneurs. A quantitative survey design was adopted; structured questionnaires were administered to 1,200 student and faculty entrepreneurs, yielding 1,000 usable responses (83.3%). Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS SEM) via SmartPLS 4.0 was employed to assess both measurement and structural models following the two stage approach recommended by Hair et al. (2022). The measurement model demonstrated satisfactory reliability (Cronbach's α: 0.82–0.85; CR: 0.87–0.90) and convergent validity (AVE: 0.64–0.67), with all HTMT discriminant validity ratios below 0.85. Structural results confirmed significant positive effects of innovation incubators on OR (β = 0.61, t = 12.80, p < 0.001, f² = 0.59), CAD (β = 0.58, t = 11.90, p < 0.001, f² = 0.52), and VG (β = 0.55, t = 11.20, p < 0.001, f² = 0.43). All three null hypotheses were rejected. The results revealed that innovation incubators significantly enhance opportunity recognition, strengthen competitive advantage, and facilitate venture growth among university entrepreneurs. Findings suggest that structured support including funding, mentorship, access to incubation facilities, and industry networking creates an environment where entrepreneurial ideas can be effectively developed into sustainable ventures. The study concludes that well managed innovation incubators are crucial for building entrepreneurial capacity in higher education institutions and recommends programmes designed to maximise opportunity identification, competitive positioning, and venture growth.