Purpose/objectives <p>The aim of this research is to explore the social networking behaviours of diaspora entrepreneurs (DE) and the effect of these networks on entrepreneurial determinants. Specifically, we investigate the social interactions and network ecosystems employed by Bangladeshi diaspora communities in Malaysia to achieve entrepreneurial success.</p> Design/methodology/approach <p>We applied an exploratory qualitative methodology to examine the nuances of diaspora in this emerging context, using in-depth interviews with Bangladeshi diaspora entrepreneurs in Malaysia.</p> Findings <p>Our findings demonstrate that diaspora entrepreneurs benefit from two types of social networking: ethnic ties and non-co-ethnic ties. The findings also establish that these social ties are built on two specific network motivators: (i) friendship and personal/familial ties, and (ii) economic interest and mutual benefits. </p> Originality <p>Our research contributes to the extant literature by shedding light on how diaspora entrepreneurs capitalize on personal networking to develop non-ethnic ties, and how this affects the subsequent identification and exploitation of opportunities in foreign markets. The research provides practical insights into how Bangladeshi diasporas leverage ethnic ties to build network relationships, in both their home and host countries.</p>