Analysis of the Impact of Competitive Intensity and Local Culture on the Entrepreneurial Intention of Indigenous Papuan Gen Z

Abstract

This study analyses the relationship between competitive intensity, local culture, and entrepreneurial intention among Generation Z Indigenous Papuans (OAP) in Wamena City, Indonesia. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitative data were collected from 100 OAP respondents aged 17–27 through a four-point Likert questionnaire and analysed using correlation and multiple linear regression in SPSS 27; qualitative data from three purposively selected informants were analysed using the Miles, Huberman and Saldaña interactive model and source triangulation. Competitive intensity had a positive and statistically significant partial relationship with entrepreneurial intention (β = 0.238; p = 0.047). Local culture was positively correlated with entrepreneurial intention (r = 0.209; p = 0.037) but did not make a significant independent contribution when competitive intensity was controlled (β = 0.075; p = 0.528). The model explained only 6.3% of adjusted variance. Qualitative findings indicate that competition is perceived as a challenge that can stimulate intention, although limited capital, networks and management capacity constrain readiness, while family obligations and solidarity shape business considerations without generally suppressing intention. Entrepreneurship programmes should therefore combine access to capital, networks, market access and management skills with sensitivity to local sociocultural obligations.