Title: Lean internationalisation of high-tech firms

Authors: Michael Neubert; Augustinus Van Der Krogt

Addresses: ISM International School of Management, 17, Boulevard Raspail, 75007 Paris, France ' Universidad Paraguaya Alemana, Lope de Vega, 1279, Asuncion, Paraguay

Abstract: This study examines the internationalisation of high-tech start-up firms (HSFs) from small and open economies (SMOPECs). It explores how HSFs may differ in their speed of internationalisation relying on information collected via interviews with the CEOs or founders of 32 HSFs that operate internationally. It uses a comparative cross-national multiple-case study research design to answer the research questions. The findings provide the basis for developing propositions for further comparative analyses of the early and fast internationalisation of HSFs based in emerging and developed markets. The study contributes to the literature on networks, internationalisation and international entrepreneurship.

Keywords: high-tech; start-up; small and open economy; SMOPEC; early internationalisation; fast internationalisation; speed of internationalisation; born global firm; BGF; Uppsala model; lean internationalisation; Paraguay; Switzerland.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTCS.2017.086679

International Journal of Teaching and Case Studies, 2017 Vol.8 No.2/3, pp.133 - 150

Received: 18 Apr 2017
Accepted: 09 May 2017
Published online: 18 Sep 2017 *

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