The Impact of Digital Business Environment on Regional Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship Activity: Configuration Analysis based on Multi-Period QCA

Siyao Jin; Sen Liu

doi:10.6981/FEM.202504_6(4).0002

Authors

Siyao Jin
Sen Liu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6981/FEM.202504_6(4).0002

Keywords:

Digital Business Environment; Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship Activity; Configuration Analysis; Multi-period fsQCA.

Abstract

In the era of digital economy, the digital business environment constitutes an integral component of the regional digital innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, serving as a significant driving force for regional digital innovation and entrepreneurial activities. This study establishes a multidimensional framework encompassing digital infrastructure, legal governance, administrative services, human capital, and market dynamics to evaluate digital business environments. Drawing upon ecosystem theory and utilizing multi-period fsQCA techniques, the research reveals configuration paths through which provincial digital business environments influence regional innovation and entrepreneurship activity in China (2013-2020). Key empirical findings include: (1) Identification of nine high-vitality configurations demonstrating policy-driven, market-oriented, and polycentric governance patterns. (2) Exposure of ten inhibitory mechanisms associated with institutional deficiencies and resource misallocation in non-high vitality scenarios. (3) Elucidation of a dynamic adaptation model following institutional environment →resource allocation →market feedback sequences, with vitality enhancement requiring tripartite coordination among policy frameworks, digital infrastructure, and talent ecosystems. This investigation transcends conventional linear analytical paradigms, advancing theoretical understanding of complex adaptive systems in digital innovation and entrepreneurship while offering practical insights for regional policy design.

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