In a highly competitive and dynamic setting, the notion of entrepreneurial leadership is essential. The development of a competitive advantage that will eventually enhance an organization's financial performance requires entrepreneurial leadership qualities. In this study, the relationship between financial performance (FP) and entrepreneurial leadership (EL) in private universities in Indonesia is investigated experimentally via the lens of competitive advantage (CA) mediation. The results of this investigation show that EL positively impacts both CA and FP. The questionnaire survey included 124 respondents, and SmartPLS 4.1.0.3 was used for analysis. Furthermore, it was discovered that CA mediates the link between FP and EL. The study's conclusions highlight how private universities may greatly increase their competitive edge by fostering entrepreneurial leadership, which will also enhance their financial performance. University leaders are advised to adopt leadership strategies that revolve around vision and mission, creativity and innovation, passion and perseverance, opportunity focus, risk-taking, capacity building, and trust in facing market challenges to create a sustainable competitive advantage and improve their institution's financial results.

Keywords: Entrepreneurial Leadership, Competitive Advantage, Financial Performance, PLS-SEM.