ENTREPRENEURIAL Resilience, Entrepreneurial Alertness, and Emotional Intelligence as Predictors of Entrepreneurial Decision-Making among Agricultural Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Davao Region: A Path ANALYSIS

Abstract

Entrepreneurial decision-making is essential for the sustainability and competitiveness of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the agricultural sector, particularly in dynamic, unpredictable environments. This study sought to examine the direct and indirect effects of entrepreneurial resilience, entrepreneurial alertness, and emotional intelligence on entrepreneurial decision-making among agricultural MSMEs in Davao Region. A quantitative causal-correlational design was employed, utilizing path analysis to test the hypothesized structural relationships. Data were collected from 200 owner-managers of agricultural MSMEs using a structured survey questionnaire comprising validated scales for the main constructs. Results indicated that entrepreneurial alertness had the strongest direct effect on entrepreneurial decision-making, followed by entrepreneurial resilience. Meanwhile, emotional intelligence was confirmed as a significant mediating variable linking resilience and alertness to sound decision-making. The model demonstrated excellent fit indices, supporting the theoretical framework grounded in Effectuation Theory. Findings highlight the importance of fostering cognitive vigilance, psychological endurance, and emotional regulation to enhance strategic decision-making among agricultural entrepreneurs. Practical implications for entrepreneurship development programs and policy interventions were discussed.