In today's dynamic economic landscape, entrepreneurship is increasingly viewed as a strategic career choice among youth. Understanding the factors that shape entrepreneurial intention is crucial, especially among college students poised to enter the workforce. This study investigates entrepreneurial motivation among college students in Palayamkottai City, Tamil Nadu, focusing on internal drivers such as personal interest and external influences like financial incentives and social environment. Primary data was collected from 75 students using a structured questionnaire and analyzed through percentage analysis, weighted average, and Garrett ranking methods. Results reveal that 93.3% of students expressed interest in entrepreneurship, with “Growth Opportunities” and “Higher Income & Benefits” being the top motivators. E-commerce was the most preferred business sector, followed by retail and education. However, several challenges such as limited access to capital, insufficient mentorship, and low awareness of government support schemes remain significant barriers. The study recommends integrating entrepreneurship education into academic curricula, increasing access to financial resources, and promoting digital and export-oriented ventures. These findings offer practical implications for educators, policymakers, and incubation centers aiming to foster a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in semi-urban and developing regions.