The Impact of Entrepreneurial Resilience on Startup Performance: The Mediating Role of Learning from Failure and Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy and the Moderating Role of Social Support

Background and Objective: This study aimed to explain the mechanisms through which entrepreneurial resilience influences startup performance by testing the mediating roles of learning from failure and entrepreneurial self-efficacy, as well as the moderating role of perceived social support within the context of Iranian startups.

Methods: This applied research employed a descriptive-correlational design. The statistical population consisted of entrepreneurs and managers of startups with up to five years of operating experience in Tehran, Alborz, and Qazvin provinces. Purposive convenience sampling was used, yielding 254 usable questionnaires. Data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Data were collected through standard questionnaires employing a five-point Likert scale. Instrument validity and reliability were confirmed through content validity, convergent validity, discriminant validity, Cronbach's alpha, and composite reliability.

Results: The findings confirmed all nine research hypotheses. Entrepreneurial resilience had a significant positive direct effect on startup performance. Resilience also positively and significantly influenced both learning from failure and entrepreneurial self-efficacy. Learning from failure positively and significantly affected entrepreneurial self-efficacy and performance. Entrepreneurial self-efficacy similarly demonstrated a significant positive effect on performance. The mediating roles of learning from failure and entrepreneurial self-efficacy in the relationship between resilience and performance were confirmed. Perceived social support moderated the relationship between resilience and learning from failure, such that this relationship was stronger at higher levels of social support. The research model explained 52% of the variance in startup performance and exhibited satisfactory predictive power.

Conclusion: The research findings demonstrate that entrepreneurial resilience improves startup performance through the mechanisms of learning from failure and entrepreneurial self-efficacy. These results underscore the critical importance of reinforcing psychological and social mechanisms in the startup growth process. Accordingly, strengthening entrepreneurial resilience and support systems can enhance the effectiveness of innovative entrepreneurial activities.