Effects of Boundaryless Digital Platforms on Transnational Entrepreneurship

Abstract

This paper examines the effects of digital platforms (e-platforms) on transnational e-entrepreneurship (TEE) through the lens of the digital entrepreneurial ecosystem framework. It propose that TEE research should be conducted in a transnational e-entrepreneurial ecosystem framework that combines the digital ecosystem and host- and home-country entrepreneurial ecosystems. Based on the experiences of twelve Chinese immigrants living in Australasia, the framework was validated through case studies of two Chinese digital platforms. The results show that e-platforms bridge host and home-country ecosystems in addition to playing roles in e-trading business. E-platforms enable micro, small and medium e-enterprises (MSME) owners to operate in the same manner as large enterprises in transnational markets. The author concludes that future research themes for TEE study should link e-entrepreneurs with e-platforms and dual (host- and home-country) entrepreneurial ecosystems. It suggests that researchers and policymakers need to emphasize the availability and functionalities of MSME.