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Purpose This article explores the transformative impact of digital platforms on micro and small enterprises (MSEs), emphasizing their role in enhancing performance, shaping the future of work (FoW) and contributing to sustainability. It also examines the primary stimulus of enterprises' digital behaviour in the purview of innovation ecosystem. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-methods study examines digital platform adoption among MSEs using primary data from 361 enterprises across 16 Indian cities (2021–2022). Complementing this, large-sample-based microdata provide a national context. The analysis compares adopters and non-adopters, highlighting performance and regional variations. Findings Enterprises engaged with digital platforms exhibit significant improvements in sales revenue, productivity, employment and reduced business costs compared to their non-digital counterparts. The COVID-19 pandemic has notably accelerated this digital transformation, especially among small retailers. As revealed through entrepreneur narratives and data analysis, the Internet is a valuable asset for value creation and sustainable growth. Additionally, regions in transition demonstrate a high potential for growth due to favourable conditions like affordable skilled labour and increased demand. Originality/value This article provides a unique perspective on the digital transformation of small enterprises, highlighting its positive implications for economic, social and environmental sustainability. It highlights the crucial need for aligning skilling and entrepreneurship initiatives with digital adoption trends. A blend of empirical data and real-world anecdotes adds valuable insights into the ongoing discussion on the future of work and the global shift towards digital economies.
Soman et al. (Mon,) studied this question.