Abstract
The primary aim of this study was to investigate the impact of educational attainment on entrepreneurial competence and financial risk tolerance among small-scale banana growers. Employing a descriptive-correlational research design with a complete enumeration sampling technique and moderation analysis, data were gathered from 150 small-scale banana growers in Compostela, Davao de Oro. The findings reveal a high level of entrepreneurial competence and financial risk tolerance among the growers. There is a significant relationship between entrepreneurial competence and financial risk tolerance. However, the interaction between entrepreneurial competence and educational attainment had an insignificant effect on the level of financial risk tolerance. This implies that entrepreneurial competence is associated with greater financial risk tolerance regardless of educational attainment, highlighting pathways for enhancing small-scale agriculture's contribution to economic growth and sustainability. This study aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), by identifying factors that support sustainable agricultural practices and entrepreneurship among small-scale growers. Our findings suggest that fostering entrepreneurial competence can contribute to achieving these goals by enhancing the productivity, sustainability, and financial resilience of small-scale banana growers in developing regions.
