In this study we investigate the effects of different types of experiences (industry, managerial, and startup) on income expectations and persistence of nascent entrepreneurs. Driven by the notion that experience can have a dual impact (providing skills but also creating myopia), we develop novel hypotheses based on expectancy theory. Panel data of 808 nascent entrepreneurs show that some, but not all experience types impact expectations and persistence similarly. Indus-try experience increases expectations and persistence alike, whereas startup experience increases expectations without increasing persistence. We discuss implications for scholarship and practice.