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The role of knowledge in internationalization

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  • Brennan, L.
  • Garvey, D.

Abstract

This paper examines the role of knowledge in the internationalization of the firm. The earlier internationalization process models are reviewed and challenges relating to their assumptions about knowledge are highlighted. This is discussed in relation to a relatively new phenomenon, the "Born Global" phenomenon. A synthesis of the research to date on this phenomenon is presented. In the context of a new world economy, a different perspective on the role of knowledge emerges. This view of knowledge is one in which knowledge intensity and internationalization knowledge accumulation influence the pace and pattern of firm internationalization. The paper calls for further research in this area.

Suggested Citation

  • Brennan, L. & Garvey, D., 2009. "The role of knowledge in internationalization," Research in International Business and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 23(2), pages 120-133, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:riibaf:v:23:y:2009:i:2:p:120-133
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    2. Elena Pawęta, 2015. "Entrepreneur-related constructs explaining the emergence of born global firms: A Systematic Literature Review," Entrepreneurial Business and Economics Review, Centre for Strategic and International Entrepreneurship at the Cracow University of Economics., vol. 3(4), pages 11-36.
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    6. Danik Lidia & Kowalik Izabela, 2020. "Network knowledge gathering of international new ventures, approaches, and preconditions," International Journal of Management and Economics, Warsaw School of Economics, Collegium of World Economy, vol. 56(3), pages 255-274, September.
    7. Battisti, Enrico & Alfiero, Simona & Quaglia, Roberto & Yahiaoui, Dorra, 2022. "Financial performance and global start-ups: the impact of knowledge management practices," Journal of International Management, Elsevier, vol. 28(4).
    8. Hu, Tiancheng & Guo, Rui & Ning, Lutao, 2022. "Intangible assets and foreign ownership in international joint ventures: The moderating role of related and unrelated industrial agglomeration," Research in International Business and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 61(C).
    9. Krzysztof Wach & Agnieszka Głodowska & Marek Maciejewski, 2018. "Entrepreneurial Orientation, Knowledge Utilization and Internationalization of Firms," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 10(12), pages 1-23, December.
    10. Noor Ismail & Olli Kuivalainen, 2015. "The effect of internal capabilities and external environment on small- and medium-sized enterprises’ international performance and the role of the foreign market scope: The case of the Malaysian halal," Journal of International Entrepreneurship, Springer, vol. 13(4), pages 418-451, December.
    11. Liliana Grigore & Anca Maria Stanculescu & Andreea Mihaela Gagea & Ana-Maria Grigore, 2009. "The Role Of Knowledge In The Internationalization Process Of Small And Medium Enterprises," JOURNAL STUDIA UNIVERSITATIS BABES-BOLYAI NEGOTIA, Babes-Bolyai University, Faculty of Business.
    12. Werner Hölzl & Jürgen Janger & Andreas Reinstaller & Isabel Stadler & Fabian Unterlass & Stephanie Daimer & Thomas Stehnken, 2010. "Barriers to Internationalisation and Growth of EU's Innovative Companies. PRO INNO Europe: INNO-Grips II Report," WIFO Studies, WIFO, number 41059, February.

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