This study measures the nexus between entrepreneurial motives and residents’ support for the meal-sharing economy with the mediating role of the state of the local economy. The authors employ partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) on the sample of 226 Indian respondents collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Results showed that the state of the local economy, social influence, gratification of hosting, and source of cultural capital are positively affecting the meal-sharing economy. Furthermore, the state of the local economy is positively associated with social influence and independency motives, significantly mediating the nexus of the meal-sharing economy with social influence and independency. Empirical findings suggest several theoretical and practical implications for residents, governments, policymakers, and tourism planners.