Managerial attributes and Entrepreneurial skills of rice farmers in Suphan Buri province

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the components of management characteristics and entrepreneurial skills among rice farmers in Suphan Buri Province, with the goal of informing policy measures that support farmers in escaping the middle-income trap. Secondary data were obtained from the project titled “Mechanism for Advancing Agriculture in the Central Region toward Modern Agriculture in Thailand” for the 2019/2020 production year. The sample consisted of 245 rice farmers, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and factor analysis. The findings revealed that 25 management characteristics were suitable for factor analysis (KMO = 0.950, Bartlett’s Test p < 0.001) and could be categorized into three main components: (1) Lifelong learners-individuals who are eager to learn and continually develop themselves; (2) Data organizers-those who systematically collect and record data for planning purposes; and (3) Cause and effect analyzer-individuals with critical thinking skills who embrace diverse opinions and make well-reasoned decisions. These three components collectively explained 57.536% of the total variance. In terms of entrepreneurial skills, 10 items were also found to be appropriate for factor analysis (KMO = 0.824, Bartlett’s Test p < 0.001), and were grouped into two principal components: (1) Seers-those capable of systematically identifying opportunities and challenges through data collection and analysis; and (2) Forecasters-individuals who apply information and new knowledge in business planning, seize business opportunities, and manage resources effectively. These two components accounted for 52.771% of the total variance. The research underscores that the development of both management characteristics and entrepreneurial skills plays a critical role in enhancing farmers’ capacity. These attributes contribute to more efficient resource utilization, improved profitability, reduced risks, and sustainable agricultural growth.