Global before birth: A study of internationalization mindsets of entrepreneurs. Issue 2 (3rd April 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Costa, Sílvia; Frederiks, Arjan J.; Englis, Paula D.; Englis, Basil G.; Groen, Aard J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of the International Council for Small Business. Volume 4:Issue 2(2023)
• Page Start: 212
• Page End: 224
• Publication Date: 2023-04-03
• Subjects: Early internationalization -- entrepreneurship -- mindset; Small business -- Periodicals; Sustainable development -- Periodicals; Small business; Sustainable development; Periodicals; 338.64205
• DOI: 10.1080/26437015.2022.2098880
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2643-7015

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Our research finds that even before a start-up has formed, a combination of the entrepreneur's willingness and ability to internationalize determines the likelihood that an entrepreneur will in fact internationalize. Even before a venture is launched, entrepreneurs already have an internationalization mindset that influences their engagement in internationalization activities later on in the entrepreneurial process. Two hundred and thirteen early-stage entrepreneurs in a business accelerator participated in this research. Using intake data, we mapped their entrepreneurial internationalization mindset profiles. Two years after intake, we observed the actual internationalization behavior of the firms. We discuss the implications of our research for entrepreneurship policy makers, support organizations, business accelerators, and entrepreneurs.