How does social capital promote rural returnee entrepreneurs’ entrepreneurial persistence?

Entrepreneurial persistence is pivotal for entrepreneurial success. In this cross-sectional study, we drew on social capital theory, social support theory, and social cognitive theory to examine the predictive effect of social capital on entrepreneurial persistence among rural returnee entrepreneurs in China. Analyses of data collected from a sample of 344 rural migrant workers who had founded businesses upon returning to their hometown revealed a positive association between social capital and entrepreneurial persistence. Further, social support was a significant mediator in this relationship. By integrating social and individual factors, this study offers novel insights and practical implications for understanding and fostering entrepreneurial persistence among rural returnee entrepreneurs.