An integration of information communication technologies and entrepreneurial ventures: a bibliometric analysis and future research directions

Abstract

Purpose – This study outlines the key research areas, recent trends and future research directions in information communication technologies (ICTs) enabled entrepreneurship, as research activities on ICTs in entrepreneurship have gained significant momentum in recent decades, driven by technological advancements and business innovativeness. Design/methodology/approach – In this paper, we used a bibliometric systematic literature review, including citation, co-citation and keyword analysis of 182 documents published from 2005 to 2024 and exported from the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. We have also utilized bibliometric coupling analysis to determine emerging themes in this area. Findings – The most productive year was 2023, and the most productive journal, institute and country are the “Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, †“Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications†and the UK, respectively. The “Journal of Enterprise Information Management†is the most influential journal. A future research direction is proposed based on the six emerging clusters and identified gaps. Research limitations/implications – The study is based on the exclusive use of the Scopus and WoS databases, which could be expanded to other databases. Only articles were considered, excluding book chapters and conference papers. Originality/value – The study is distinctive as it recognizes the intellectual structure and advancement in ICT-enabled entrepreneurship. By comprehensively reviewing the existing literature, the study proposes a novel conceptual framework to serve as a foundation for future studies, offering significant insights for academics and practitioners to navigate the evolving landscape of this area. © 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited