Digital Inclusive Finance as a Catalyst for Rural Revitalization: An Empirical Analysis from the County Development Perspective in Hubei Province

The study examines the role of digital inclusive finance in the context of comprehensively promoting the rural revitalization strategy, specifically focusing on the significance of counties as pivotal agents in facilitating urban–rural integration and driving the success of rural revitalization efforts. Utilizing data from 52 counties and cities in Hubei Province, the research investigates the impact of digital inclusive finance on the development of rural revitalization from the unique perspective of counties. The empirical analysis reveals that digital inclusive finance, encompassing the total index along with breadth of coverage, depth of use, and digitization index, exerts a substantial and positive influence on enhancing the development level of rural revitalization. By leveraging digital inclusive finance, sustainable rural revitalization is promoted through the facilitation of county economic development, the promotion of technological innovation, and support for upgrading industrial structures. To achieve significant progress in rural Hubei and to establish a robust agricultural province, the study advocates for prioritizing the construction of rural digital inclusive finance and strengthening the county digital inclusive finance system. Moreover, enhancing the comprehensive development capacity of counties and strategically utilizing digital inclusive finance as a catalyst for rural revitalization are identified as crucial elements in realizing the overarching rural revitalization goals. Additionally, the research emphasizes the importance of deepening the development of agricultural science and technology and advancing the level of scientific and technological innovation to further support and reinforce the objectives of rural revitalization.