International growth of SMEs

The main aim of the research project is to study the initial, often rapid internationalization of small firms and the main drivers of subsequent growth. The knowledge of the consequences of rapid internationalization is yet limited and, we do not know whether these companies survive, grow, or die and which strategies these companies take. Thus, the main questions to be answered are: What are the drivers for international growth and what alternatives of international growth strategies exist and which are the best strategies in different situations? In the research project focus is on growth strategies linked to innovation and opportunity exploration and exploitation as well as networking and cooperation. The discussion above leads to the following research themes: • Innovation/Opportunity exploration in rapidly internationalising firms • Growth/Opportunity exploitation of rapidly internationalising firms • The significance of cooperation and competition in business networks for rapidly internationalising firms • Significance of characteristics of owners and management teams in rapidly internationalising firms • Network management of successful rapidly internationalising firms The research project is a joint effort of three Finnish Universities: Swedish School of Economics (Vaasa) - Professor Sören Kock (doctoral student Anette Söderqvist) Lappeenranta University of Technology - Professor Sami Saarenketo (doctoral student Mika Ruokonen) Turku School of Economics and Business Administration - Professor Niina Nummela (doctoral student Eriikka Paavilainen)