This study refines and standardizes the measurement of entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) by developing a multi-dimensional instrument within a four-phase venture creation process framework. The study addresses inconsistencies in the definition, dimensionality, and measurement of ESE, and includes a diverse sample of nascent entrepreneurs. The findings suggest that ESE is best viewed as a multi-dimensional construct, with five distinct dimensions: searching, planning, marshaling, implementing-people, and implementing-financial. The study also highlights the importance of including nascent entrepreneurs in ESE research, as they are individuals engaged in activities that lead to new business ventures. The study's results indicate that nascent entrepreneurs exhibit higher levels of ESE than individuals in a baseline group, and that there is a positive relationship between nascent entrepreneurship and ESE constructs. The study also demonstrates the utility of structural equation modeling (SEM) in measuring multi-item constructs and their correlations. The findings have important implications for entrepreneurship education, as they suggest that ESE can be enhanced through education and training. The study also highlights the need for future research to explore the relationships between ESE and venture growth expectations, as well as the role of cultural influences on ESE. Overall, the study provides a more robust and reliable measure of ESE that can be used in a variety of contexts.This study refines and standardizes the measurement of entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) by developing a multi-dimensional instrument within a four-phase venture creation process framework. The study addresses inconsistencies in the definition, dimensionality, and measurement of ESE, and includes a diverse sample of nascent entrepreneurs. The findings suggest that ESE is best viewed as a multi-dimensional construct, with five distinct dimensions: searching, planning, marshaling, implementing-people, and implementing-financial. The study also highlights the importance of including nascent entrepreneurs in ESE research, as they are individuals engaged in activities that lead to new business ventures. The study's results indicate that nascent entrepreneurs exhibit higher levels of ESE than individuals in a baseline group, and that there is a positive relationship between nascent entrepreneurship and ESE constructs. The study also demonstrates the utility of structural equation modeling (SEM) in measuring multi-item constructs and their correlations. The findings have important implications for entrepreneurship education, as they suggest that ESE can be enhanced through education and training. The study also highlights the need for future research to explore the relationships between ESE and venture growth expectations, as well as the role of cultural influences on ESE. Overall, the study provides a more robust and reliable measure of ESE that can be used in a variety of contexts.