Understanding entrepreneurial culture: Resident perspectives in a post-Soviet transition country

The concept of entrepreneurial culture has frequently appeared in academic studies dedicated to both developed and developing countries. However, this topic has not been sufficiently investigated in the case of post-Soviet Central Asian countries, particularly in the context of Kyrgyzstan. Kyrgyzstan can be an intriguing case study for analyzing entrepreneurial culture, as it has experienced distinct political and economic paradigms throughout its historical trajectory. This paper aims to empirically examine the current state and provide suggestions for the further development of entrepreneurial culture in Kyrgyzstan. This research is based on a conceptual framework developed through a review of existing literature on entrepreneurial culture, along with reports from national and international organizations. Primary data were collected through both online and in-person surveys administered to individuals aged 20 to 70, involving a sample of 319 residents in Kyrgyzstan. According to the findings, the entrepreneurial culture in Kyrgyzstan has evolved since the country's independence in 1991. Currently, residents hold positive attitudes towards entrepreneurship and its external drivers, except for the policy environment. The prevailing regulatory framework and governmental policies are deemed insufficiently conducive. More specifically, we argue that existing entrepreneurship frameworks and initiatives are predominantly borrowed from international models, often neglecting the unique local context and cultural nuances. Additionally, we urge policymakers to rely on reliable research outputs when making decisions. Measuring and evaluating entrepreneurial culture is important for policymakers, given that expansion and support programs in Kyrgyzstan can foster economic development.