Material Culture and Entrepreneurship Development: A Study of the Contribution of Material Culture to the Growth of Entrepreneurship in Bida, Niger State, Nigeria

This study explores the relationship between Material Culture and Entrepreneurship Development: A Study of the Contribution of Material Culture to the Growth of Entrepreneurship in Bida, Niger State, Nigeria. Tswatamukun aluminium work, Dokondza ironwork, and Massaga glass production form a significant part of the Nupe people's cultural and economic life. However, these traditional enterprises face threats from modernization, globalization, and declining youth interest. A descriptive survey design was adopted. Data were collected from 206 artisans across three cultural clusters of Massaga, Tswatamukun, and Dokondza using a stratified random sampling technique and structured questionnaires. Out of 206 administered instruments, 189 valid responses were retrieved and analyzed using tables, percentages and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). The findings reveal three key outcomes: (1) cultural heritage is positively and significantly related to entrepreneurial performance (r = 0.641, p < 0.01); (2) entrepreneurial orientation significantly influences cultural preservation (r = 0.641, p < 0.01); and (3) institutional support significantly affects socioeconomic development (r = 0.641, p < 0.01). The study concludes that integrating cultural values with entrepreneurial innovation and institutional backing is essential for sustaining traditional industries. It recommends the incorporation of cultural elements into entrepreneurship training, establishment of heritage-based enterprise hubs, targeted innovation grants, and inclusive policy frameworks that promote cultural preservation alongside economic development.