How can digital innovation capabilities of Chinese college students be cultivated?

This study employs the competency theory model and utilizes Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA) and Fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to analyze data from 71 excellent universities in mainland China, which host national-level innovation and entrepreneurship colleges and education practice bases. The research investigates how various elements combine to impact the digital innovation capabilities of college students. The study identifies three configurations that lead to high digital innovation capabilities among students and categorizes them into three modes: the capability-motivation combination mode, the internal-external linkage mode, and the capability-willingness combination mode. The findings provide valuable insights for universities in cultivating digital innovation talent. • A framework for digital innovation capabilities in higher education is proposed. • Digital innovation capabilities are crucial for enhancing digital innovation outcomes. • Three key configurations significantly boost digital innovation capabilities. • Necessary Condition Analysis and fuzzy-set analysis are applied to this study. • Combining at least two factors maximizes digital innovation capabilities.