Abstract: The development of the digital economy is exerting a profound influence on the local economy. The main purpose of this study is to clarify the role of local application-oriented universities in promoting the development of the digital economy, analyze the current problems, and propose corresponding suggestions. Specifically, we hope to address the following issues through this research: first, how to better integrate innovation and entrepreneurship education into the teaching system of local application-oriented universities; second, how to strengthen cooperation and exchanges between local universities and local enterprises to promote the deep integration of industry, education, and research; third, how to optimize the allocation of resources and talent cultivation structure in local universities to meet the needs of digital economy development.

Key words: Local application-oriented universities, Innovation and entrepreneurship education, Digital economy, Local area, Economic management, Innovation and entrepreneurship