Digital Economy and Migrant Entrepreneurship: Gender Considerations

ABSTRACT

This study examines the impact of the digital economy on migrant entrepreneurship, with a focus on gender differences. The theoretical framework suggests that the digital economy supports migrant entrepreneurship by lowering entry barriers, expanding market access, increasing flexibility, and enhancing knowledge and skills. In addition, it may particularly benefit female migrants by challenging traditional gender roles in household labor and easing work‐family conflicts. Using individual‐level data from the China Migrants Dynamic Survey (CMDS) and city‐level digital economy indices, the empirical analysis finds a strong positive relationship between the digital economy and migrant entrepreneurship. The results also indicate that the digital economy has a greater positive effect on female migrants than on their male counterparts.