Engineering biomaterial scaffolds with shape memory effect (SME) could offer a new modality to regulate cell behavior for achieving enhanced efficacy in tissue regeneration. In this study, hydroxyapatite (HAp), collagen (Col) and poly(L-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) were hybridized at the mass ratio of 92.5:5:2.5 for preparing composite nanofibers of PLCL/HAp/Col via electrospinning. Morphological, structural, thermal-mechanical, shape memory properties and biological properties of the composite nanofibers were systematically investigated for potential use in bone regeneration. The results showed that HAp and Col could be incorporated within the fiber matrix of PLCL with a diameter of ca. 500 nm. The glass transition temperature (T-g) of the composite nanofibers, i.e., the transition temperature (T-tran) for actuating shape recovery of the PLCL fibers, was maintained at 38 degrees C. Introduction of the HAp and Col components into PLCL fibers led to improved mechanical properties with a noted Young's modulus of (111.97 +/- 4.45) MPa. Shape memory test results showed that PLCL/HAp/Col composite nanofibers possessed impressive shape fixation rate (>99%) and shape recovery rate (>96%). Moreover, compared to controls, the nanofibrous PLCL/HAp/Col scaffolds significantly promoted the rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs) to proliferate favorably and also enhanced the expression of ALP, Col and mineral deposition. These results laid a foundation for further exploration of the biomechanical effects of the shape memory capable nanofibrous PLCL/HAp/Col in the future.