Are digital competencies enough for future entrepreneurs? Insights from human capital and social cognitive theory among STEM and non-STEM students

Purpose This study aims to examine the relationships between digital competencies, religiosity and entrepreneurial orientation (EO) (e.g. risk-taking and perseverance), self-efficacy, resilience and entrepreneurial intention (EI) by considering educational background (STEM/non-STEM) as a basis for comparison from the lenses of human capital and social cognitive theory. Design/methodology/approach The present study uses a quantitative approach by analyzing the data with partial least squares from 663 students from universities in Indonesia – 336 from students with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) backgrounds and 327 from non-STEM. Findings It was found that there are no significant differences between those who have STEM and non-STEM backgrounds in the relationships between digital competencies and EI. Interestingly, religiosity has played a role in enhancing EI. We also discussed the findings and the context of Indonesia as an emerging economy. Research limitations/implications Respondents from this study come from two universities in Indonesia. Therefore, more comparisons from other countries can be conducted. The limited role of educational background in this study can provide some important implications, including the appropriate policies to foster well-educated and future technology-based entrepreneurs. Originality/value This is among the first studies comparing people with STEM and non-STEM backgrounds in the relationships between digital competencies, religiosity, EO and EI from human capital and social cognitive theory lenses.