Affective factors contributing to entrepreneurship potential of nanotechnology in agricultural sector of Iran

Abstract

Full potential of nanotechnologies especially in creating new jobs and providing opportunities for entrepreneurs in agriculture sector has not yet been realized. In this regard, examining the factors that promote the entrepreneurial potential of nanotechnology should be considered as a major step toward creating opportunities for new businesses venture. The major purpose of this study is factors contributing to entrepreneurial potential of nanotechnology in agriculture sector of Iran. The total population for this study was 1226 researchers in 25 research institutes of the Ministry of Agriculture that were involved in the nanotechnology research and development. By using stratified random sampling procedure 180 respondents was selected as sample population of the study. The results of regression analysis showed, 48% of the variance in the perception of agricultural researchers could be explained by four variables of entrepreneurship spirit, job experience, familiarity with applications of nanotechnology in agriculture and training Courses about nanotechnology. It is important to point out that only less than 50% of variance was explained by this study and the findings revealed that there is need for more research about other factors that affect entrepreneurship. Key words: Nanotechnology, potential, agriculture researcher, entrepreneurship.