Entrepreneurial education: meeting needs better

The purpose of this paper is to offer a perspective on the economic performance of small to medium‐sized enterprises' (SMEs') innovation and education in the context of entrepreneurship.

A wide ranging narrative supported by examples.

There is still plenty of opportunity for innovation in entrepreneurship education.

There is real and timely opportunity to follow a research agenda in this area which would be of significant benefit to public policy.

Building pathways to entrepreneurial effectiveness is a challenge but could lead to effective public policy.

Economic activity cannot be undertaken in isolation from the cultural context. Entrepreneurship is a force for social change.

The discussion offers a personal viewpoint and poses questions.