Reflecting on perceived failure of entrepreneurship development initiatives to help ignite economic development in Malawi

Abstract This study reflects on the perceived failure of entrepreneurship development initiatives to help ignite economic in Malawi. A cross-sectional survey 337 enterprises collected top-of-the-mind definitions entrepreneurship, and innovations their values carried out. Content analyses, comparison mean values, 2 independent samples tests multiple linear regression analyses showed that is as starting managing one’s own business; being self-employed. Carrying out low value, but which had higher median than those did not. The found opportunity-motivated, growth-oriented, limited liability medium-to-large size category be productive types enterprises, there were very few. It argued fail because knowledge guides misses essence entrepreneurship—carrying innovations. Secondly, are no support SME innovation growth through product development, investments modern production facilities access export markets. encouraged key stakeholders adjust understanding neoclassical perspectives, encourage innovative start-ups provide grow numbers enterprises.