Bridging trust and transparency: the role of blockchain in Islamic charitable crowdfunding

Purpose This study aims to investigate the interplay between blockchain-enabled technological stimuli and religious commitment in shaping Islamic donors’ behavior in charitable crowdfunding. It also aims to address the critical issue of trust within Islamic charitable platforms by integrating the stimulus-organism-response (SOR) framework and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT). Design/methodology/approach A qualitative research approach was adopted, with data collected from 201 young Muslims in Indonesia who were actively involved in various crowdfunding projects. Data analysis and model measurement were conducted using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings The results of this research indicate that the convenience of transactions exerts a positive and substantial influence on the expectations of Muslim donors regarding platform performance and their perception of legitimacy. Religious conviction exerts a distinct influence on donors’ behavior; however, it lacks the necessary strength to effectively govern the relationship between intention and the act of contributing. In contrast to various studies undertaken across multiple sectors, the results of this investigation suggest that perceptions regarding the conduct of Islamic donors or their philanthropic activities positively influence charitable behavior or actual acts of charity. Practical implications This study provides a novel integration of SOR and UTAUT frameworks to explain Islamic donor behavior in the digital age, offering a comprehensive view of how technological and religious factors co-shape trust and participation in charitable crowdfunding. Originality/value This study presents a distinctive conceptual approach by incorporating transaction convenience and religious devotion, a combination rarely found in existing literature, thereby underscoring the significance of the research. The research additionally used the SOR Framework, accompanied by a meticulously crafted construct that stands apart from the UTAUT. This approach enhances the theoretical landscape and introduces novel concepts to the discourse.