## 2 Research Background
### Existing Knowledge Gap and Hypotheses  
In this study, the goal was to present the application of statistical methods for data mining through analyzing a relevant topic, which was to predict entrepreneurial intentions based on Internet marketing factors. The dataset included variables of entrepreneurial intentions and the application of Internet marketing. The paper addressed the following knowledge gaps:  
* There is a lack of research in the domain of entrepreneurial intentions and the application of Internet marketing in transitional countries. The existing studies in this domain only partly address entrepreneurship intentions and have not been analyzed in the context of Internet marketing [116; 119; 121; 123; 125]. * There is not a large body of literature that has analyzed multiple data analysis tools. This study aimed to fill this gap by analyzing a large dataset comprised from data collected from micro-, small-, medium-sized, and large enterprises that conducted their business in a transitional economic setting. This dataset was analyzed with several data analysis tools including linear regression, logistic regression, QUEST algorithm, CHAID, SVM, and feed-forwards neural networks. This approach will provide a significant insight. Website optimization (WOPT) refers to the enhancement of a website's structure, content, and functionality to improve the user experience, accessibility, and overall platform efficiency [101]. Recognizing that a well-optimized website can facilitate smoother navigation, faster load times, and more intuitive interactions may lead aspiring entrepreneurs to perceive online business ventures as more feasible and rewarding. The idea that potential customers can locate products or services easily, engage with relevant information, and complete transactions with minimal friction signals a higher likelihood of sustained consumer interest and improved conversion rates. As these outcomes become more evident, individuals are likely to feel more confident about their entrepreneurial prospects, leading to stronger entrepreneurial intentions [105]. * \(\mathrm{H_{1}}\): Website optimization (WOPT) positively affects the entrepreneur intentions (ENTIN). Social media marketing (SMM) involves leveraging social platforms to increase brand visibility, support community engagement, and maintain ongoing dialogue with current and prospective customers [11; 85]. The awareness that social networks allow entrepreneurs to reach their target audiences efficiently, gather feedback, and tailor their messaging in real-time may encourage individuals to envision entrepreneurship as a more accessible and adaptive pursuit. Observing how social media helps establish brand credibility, amplify outreach efforts, and facilitate cost-effective promotions reinforces the perception that entrepreneurial ventures can gain meaningful traction even in competitive online ecosystems. This understanding, in turn, can bolster one's confidence and interest in initiating entrepreneurial activities [90; 94]. * \(\mathrm{H_{2}}\): Social media marketing (SMM) positively affects the entrepreneur intentions (ENTIN). E-mail marketing (EMAIL) is characterized by targeted and personalized communication with customers through direct messaging, newsletters, and promotional campaigns. Recognizing the potential of email marketing to nurture leads, retain customers, and build trust in a scalable manner can encourage individuals to see entrepreneurship as more manageable and predictable. The perception that entrepreneurs can maintain consistent contact with their audience, offer tailored recommendations, and promptly address customer inquiries or concerns supports a sense of control and reliability [25; 51; 63]. * \(\mathrm{H_{3}}\): E-mail marketing (EMAIL) positively affects the entrepreneur intentions (ENTIN). Content marketing (CMA) focuses on producing and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content that resonates with a well-defined audience.