Motivations and Barriers to Agricultural Entrepreneurship: An Analysis of Individual and Territorial Dynamics: The Case of the RMS

Abstract

Agricultural entrepreneurship represents a strategic lever for Morocco’s economic and social development, particularly in rural areas. It contributes to the modernization of the sector, job creation, the valorization of local resources, and the reinforcement of food security. Recognizing these challenges, the Moroccan state has implemented several ambitious policies. The Green Morocco Plan (2008–2020) marked a significant milestone by promoting agricultural modernization and supporting small-scale farmers, notably through private investment and public–private partnerships. This momentum was further consolidated with the Generation Green 2020–2030 strategy, which places youth and women at the core of its priorities by facilitating access to land, training opportunities, and financing mechanisms.

For the purposes of this study, a questionnaire survey was administered to 126 respondents in the Marrakech-Safi region. A descriptive analysis was selected as the methodological approach for data processing. This choice is justified by the primary objective of the research, namely to identify and understand the motivations as well as the barriers to agricultural entrepreneurship. A descriptive approach is particularly suited to highlight general trends, profile characteristics, and stakeholder perceptions, without the need for advanced statistical modeling. It therefore provides a clear, coherent, and relevant interpretation of the findings in direct relation to the research problem.

The results reveal that project holders are predominantly young, educated men from farming families, driven by a passion for the land, the pursuit of financial autonomy, and the valorization of local resources. However, they face several structural constraints, including water stress, restricted access to land and financing, administrative burdens, and insufficient technical training.

While public policies and economic incentives constitute favorable levers, the analysis underscores the need for a reinforced support system. Despite the region’s proven potential, its resources remain unevenly mobilized, pointing to the necessity of closer coordination among public, private, and associative actors to unlock sustainable entrepreneurial dynamics.

Keywords: Entrepreneurship; Agricultural Entrepreneurship; Individual Dynamics; Motivations and Barriers to Agricultural Entrepreneurship.

Classification JEL:

Paper type: Theoretical Research and Empirical Research