The adoption of new technologies can contribute to both efficiency and effectiveness and is a key source of long-term competitive advantage in entrepreneurial ventures. This is particularly relevant for poverty entrepreneurs. However, the literature on technology adoption and use in the poverty context is sparse, and is predominantly focused on developing economies. The current article seeks to address these shortcomings. We identify critical areas of typical ventures launched by the poor that are affected by technology. Attention is devoted to understanding technology as a product versus a process and what this distinction means for poverty entrepreneurs. We introduce a conceptual framework linking technology and digital literacy, technology adoption, and absorptive capacity to venture inputs and outputs. Dynamic interactions among these variables are explored. Implications for theory development and management practice, together with recommendations for future research, are provided.

This study aims to examine the role of entrepreneurial intentions and motivations in the interplay between humane-oriented personal values and entrepreneurial behavior. Using data from 593 individuals in 2010 and 2019, we uncover how and when humane-oriented personal values (conservation and self-transcendence) lead to self-employment. Results suggest that entrepreneurial intentions function as a mechanism that triggers self-employment decisions for individuals with humane-oriented personal values and that this effect is stronger when they engage in opportunity-based entrepreneurship. Finally, we discuss the implications of these findings for the literature on personal values and the intention-action link.

Adopting new (digital) technologies can significantly contribute to a firms short- and long-term competitive advantage. However, the literature on how managerial competencies and digitalization intersect is still sparse. Therefore, this article will address this gap by first reviewing some critical gaps in the literature on managerial competencies and development. We then discuss the concepts of digital literacy and adaptability in the context of management. Attention is devoted to how managers acquire digital literacy and adaptability as well as how that enhances their managerial competencies. Application recommendations and managerial insights are provided.