A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Social networks in the initiation of a high-tech firm's internationalisation
Authors: Komulainen Hanna, Mainela Tuija, Tähtinen Jaana
Publisher: Inderscience
Publication year: 2006
Journal: International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management
Journal name in source: International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management
Volume: 6
Issue: 6
First page : 526
Last page: 541
ISSN: 1368-275X
eISSN: 1741-5098
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1504/IJEIM.2006.010979
Web address : http://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id:33751554887
Abstract
Entering foreign markets is often challenging for small firms due to the limited resources available for internationalisation. Through social networks, firms can gain access to and mobilise external resources in order to aid the initiation of internationalisation. The present study is concerned with the initiation of the internationalisation in small high-technology firms. The paper develops an empirically grounded framework for understanding the roles a social network can play in the initiation of internationalisation. The framework acknowledges personal relationships as sources of critical information about foreign business opportunities and potential international business partners. Moreover, social relationships can open doors in international business. This study brings forward the very active role that the social network can play as a mediator in the small firm's internationalisation. The mediation can provide the small firm publicity, contacts and legitimacy resulting in first international contacts and development of international business relationships. Copyright © 2006 Inderscicnce Enterprises Ltd.
Entering foreign markets is often challenging for small firms due to the limited resources available for internationalisation. Through social networks, firms can gain access to and mobilise external resources in order to aid the initiation of internationalisation. The present study is concerned with the initiation of the internationalisation in small high-technology firms. The paper develops an empirically grounded framework for understanding the roles a social network can play in the initiation of internationalisation. The framework acknowledges personal relationships as sources of critical information about foreign business opportunities and potential international business partners. Moreover, social relationships can open doors in international business. This study brings forward the very active role that the social network can play as a mediator in the small firm's internationalisation. The mediation can provide the small firm publicity, contacts and legitimacy resulting in first international contacts and development of international business relationships. Copyright © 2006 Inderscicnce Enterprises Ltd.
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