ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEM: EXPLORING SUCCESS FACTORS OF YOUTH-LED BUSINESSES IN KACHIN STATE, MYANMAR

Authors

  • Seng Naw University of Mataram
  • Imanuella Andilolo Universitas Mataram

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29303/distribusi.v14i2.710

Keywords:

Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, Kachin State, Successful businesses, Youth-led businesses

Abstract

Youth-led enterprises play a vital role in promoting innovation, employment, and economic recovery in developing and conflict-affected regions such as Kachin State, Myanmar. However, limited research has explored how entrepreneurial ecosystems shape the success of these businesses within complex socio-political and cultural contexts. This study aims to examine the key success factors influencing youth-led enterprises by focusing on the interaction between individual capabilities and environmental conditions. This research adopts a qualitative, exploratory multiple case-study approach. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with four youth entrepreneurs operating businesses for more than five years in Myitkyina, Kachin State. The data were transcribed, translated, and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns related to entrepreneurial characteristics, skills, and ecosystem influences, including cultural, financial, institutional, and market factors. The findings reveal that successful youth entrepreneurs possess strong human capital, including technical skills, leadership, communication abilities, and entrepreneurial mindsets characterized by persistence and risk-taking. Social and cultural factors, particularly family support, religious values, and trust-based relationships, significantly enhance business performance. While financial access remains limited, reliance on personal savings and informal networks is common. The study concludes that youth entrepreneurship success is shaped by the interaction between individual capabilities and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Strengthening skills development, mentoring, inclusive financial access, and coordinated institutional support is essential to foster sustainable youth entrepreneurship in Kachin State.

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Published

2026-09-30

How to Cite

Naw, . S., & Andilolo, I. (2026). ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEM: EXPLORING SUCCESS FACTORS OF YOUTH-LED BUSINESSES IN KACHIN STATE, MYANMAR. Distribusi - Journal of Management and Business, 14(2), 451–470. https://doi.org/10.29303/distribusi.v14i2.710

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Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026): Distribusi, September 2026

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Copyright (c) 2026 Seng Naw, Imanuella Andilolo

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