This paper is based on the theoretical analysis of one aspect of the entrepreneurial phenomena and its role in generating economic development. Young people are social groups that are often in disadvantaged positions on the labor market due to their characteristics, and this position could be partially corrected by motivating their entrepreneurial activity. In order to assess the entrepreneurial potential of young people and their determinants, empirical research has been conducted through an online questionnaire survey on a sample of 200 young people. This gave an insight into their perception of the attractiveness of self-employment. The primary research also includes a structured interview conducted among six respondents, existing young entrepreneurs, to detect key determinants of entrepreneurship intent. Research results show high entrepreneurial aspirations of young people, but also the negative effect of lack of financial resources and sociocultural circumstances. The purpose of this paper is to outline the perspective of youth entrepreneurship development in Croatia and to show how young entrepreneurs look to their future, as well as the factors that will impact the future.