Abstract:

New venture internationalization theory suggests international-oriented SMEs leverage digitalization to accelerate their foreign market entry. Yet, the role of digitalization in international business model remains vague. Limited empirical studies have tested digitalization variable in their research models. We conceptualize digitalization as an accelerator for SMEs early internationalization. Despite strategic orientations affect early internationalization, policy makers and SMEs should not ignore the contribution of digitalization as accelerator. When other factors are equivalent, firm’s digitalization influences the speed of internationalization. We propose an early internationalization model for further empirical research of the interplay between strategic orientations and digitalization.