The Role of Higher Education in Small Business Longevity

Abstract: This qualitative study explores how small business owners with postsecondary education interpret and apply their academic experiences to achieve business longevity beyond five years. Framed by constructivist theory, semi-structured interviews with nine small business owners revealed four key themes: foundational knowledge, problem-solving, perseverance, and human capital. The study draws connections between these findings and current literature on entrepreneurial education, cognitive and non-cognitive skill development, and business survival. Participants emphasized the influence of applied learning, mentorship, and confidence-building as critical in sustaining operations. The study offers implications for curriculum design, entrepreneurship education, and policy efforts to foster long-term small business success.

Key words: entrepreneurship, higher education, small business longevity, qualitative research, human capital

JEL code: A220