An Opportunity-Based View of Rapid Internationalization

Abstract

This article aims to better understand patterns of rapid internationalization by using the emerging international entrepreneurship paradigm. This involves (1) taking an opportunity-based view (OBV) rather than just the firm as a focal point of analysis, (2) focusing on dynamic entrepreneurial processes, and (3) stressing the importance of history. The authors gathered empirical evidence from 15 case studies of small and medium-sized enterprises in Australia. They find support for the central proposition that behind the gradual or rapid internationalization process lies a path-dependent process of opportunity development and cross-border venturing activities that is shaped by the domestic and international networks in which the key actors and organizations have operated in the past and in which they are currently operating. The evidence leads the authors to question the notion that rapid internationalization is indeed rapid. Importantly, it reveals that rapid internationalization seems to be a truly rapid process only when not taking an OBV. In doing so, the authors demonstrate that the OBV is a fruitful avenue of enquiry to advance knowledge in this area and underscore the importance of the entrepreneurial process and firm history.