Internationalization at the digital era – the choice between the entity-based entry mode and the non-entity- based entry mode for digital SMEs

Abstract

The internaitonalization theory has been focusing on MNEs and gradually shifting its focus to SMEs. However, the digital SMEs have gained less attention of the researchers while growing fast in the global economy. This single case study focuses on the choice between the entity-based and non- entity-based entry modes at the initial stage of internationalization. A framework is produced by integrating the literacture of born digitals, platforms and internationalization of SMEs. The research found that a combination of non-entity-based and entity-based entry modes could be helpful for the early internationalization of digital SMEs.