How does digital empowerment affect venture capital: an empirical study of Chinese manufacturing listed corporations in Growth Enterprise Market

Abstract

ABSTRACT Amid a growing interest in venture capital research, little attention has been given to exploring the influence of digital empowerment on this domain. Particularly in the midst of heightened uncertainty factors contributing to global financial fragility and instances of capital retreat, these matters demand comprehensive examination. Drawing on resource-based theory and information asymmetry theory, this study collected extensive data from 1,985 Chinese manufacturing listed enterprises in the Growth Enterprise Market (GEM) from 2016 to 2020. Leveraging the hierarchical regression technique, the research delved into the intricate relationship between digital empowerment and enterprise venture capital, while also considering the mediating role of innovation input and the moderating effect of government subsidies. The findings demonstrate that digital empowerment and innovation input yield a significantly positive impact on venture capital. Moreover, innovation input partially mediates the connection between digital empowerment and venture capital. Furthermore, government subsidies positively moderate the relationship between digital empowerment and innovation input. These research conclusions not only contribute to the advancement of venture capital theory but also furnish a theoretical foundation for enterprises seeking to secure additional venture capital and for governments to promote innovation and entrepreneurship strategies.