Title: Mapping the Metaverse: a comprehensive bibliometric review of digital transformation and entrepreneurship in virtual realms

Authors: Dharen Kumar Pandey; Amir Hasnaoui; Marion Polge; Mayank Yuvaraj; Jatin Kumar Jaiswal

Addresses: Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur, Basantpur, Sambalpur – 768025, Odisha, India ' CERIIM – Research Center in Managerial Intelligence and Innovation, La Rochelle Business School, Excelia Business School, 102 Rue de Coureilles, 17000 La Rochelle, France ' University of Montpellier, Espace Richter, Rue Vendémiaire, 34000 Montpellier, France ' Central University of South Bihar, NH-120, Gaya Panchanpur Road, Post Fatehpur, Gaya, Bihar, India ' Prestige Institute of Management and Research, 2 Education and Health Sector Scheme 54, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract: This study explores the Metaverse as a dynamic digital environment that facilitates the digital transformation of entrepreneurial practices through the integration of virtual, augmented, and extended reality platforms. Utilising bibliometric analysis, we analyse 207 scholarly articles published between 1989 and 2024. Our findings reveal significant trends and identify leading publications, authors, and countries. Additionally, we uncover six primary research themes: 1) exploring innovation, technology adoption, and social dynamics; 2) exploring emerging frontiers in digital entrepreneurship; 3) exploring entrepreneurship in a virtual world; 4) entrepreneurial dynamics in the age of technological advancement; 5) digital transformation in education and business; 6) exploring innovative approaches in entrepreneurship education. Furthermore, we propose 20 future research directions. By framing the discussion around digital transformation, this review highlights the Metaverse's role in reshaping traditional business models and catalysing systemic change in entrepreneurial practices, thereby providing a valuable roadmap for both academic inquiry and practical application.

Keywords: Metaverse; digital transformation; entrepreneurship; bibliometric analysis; virtual realms; digital economy; systematic review; future research directions.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESB.2026.156160

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business, 2026 Vol.59 No.2, pp.180 - 206

Received: 14 Mar 2025
Accepted: 16 Aug 2025
Published online: 07 Sep 2026 *

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