Ripple effect of gig work: How hands-on experience and networks shape future female entrepreneurs

• This research investigates how gig economy engagement (GEE), experiential learning (EL), network expansion (NE), and entrepreneurial intention (EI) interact. • GEE reported a direct, positive, and significant relationship between NE and EI. • GEE shows no substantial connection between NE and EL. • EL reported a direct and positive relationship with EI. • NE exhibited a positive and significant relationship with EI. The rapid growth of the gig economy is reshaping traditional employment structures, creating new pathways for entrepreneurial activities, especially for women. Female entrepreneurship has always been a trending issue worldwide, particularly in developing conservative societies where females face social and gender bias. To enhance the role of females in society and engage them in economic development, an adequate business environment should be created, including opportunities in the gig economy. In this context, the Saudi government provides extensive support for current and potential female entrepreneurs across various aspects. This study builds on the Saudi government’s efforts to understand the effects of gig economy engagement (GEE), experiential learning (EL), and network expansion (NE) on entrepreneurial intention (EI). A sample of 208 female students was collected, and the developed hypotheses were tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The findings were intriguing, as GEE had a direct, positive, and significant relationship with EI and NE but no substantial relationship with EL. Conversely, EL had a direct and positive relationship with EI, while NE exhibited a positive and significant relationship with EI. The developed model validates the study’s context and has critical theoretical and practical implications for policymakers and researchers.