A Study on the Impact of Including Disadvantaged Groups on Firms’ Science and Technology Innovation Performance in the Context of Digital Intelligence

Science, technology, and innovation (STI) play an irreplaceable and critical role in promoting economic prosperity, social progress, and sustained competitiveness of enterprises. They are essential means to achieve sustainable development. The extent to which enterprises create an inclusive and supportive environment for disadvantaged groups is closely linked to their understanding of inclusive management strategies for enhancing STI performance. Based on resource-based theory and dynamic capability theory, this study constructs and validates the mechanism influencing the degree of firms’ inclusion of disadvantaged groups and STI performance, and examines the mediating role of social responsibility. Through a combination of questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, this study balances quantitative and qualitative analyses to provide specific guidance for business managers. This guidance aims to help them effectively implement inclusive management strategies during digital transformation and utilize digital intelligence technology to enhance their enterprises’ innovation capability and competitiveness.