The proactiveness dimension of international entrepreneurship orientation : A study on born global firms

In the last century, due to the driving force of globalization with the rapid developments in communication technologies, small and medium-sized enterprises involves into the international market early and quickly. In parallel with this development, it is seen that researchers in the literature are studying early and rapid internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises rather than explaining the internationalization of the larger enterprises. Born global firm approach can explain the early involvement of internationalized small and medium sized enterprises into international markets without going through the steps proposed by traditional internationalization process. A new area is revealed by the born global firm approach is the international entrepreneurship orientation. The universe of the research, the new area of international entrepreneurship orientation is explained through born global firms. Proactiveness as a dimension of international entrepreneurship orientation is discussed. The aim of this study is the factors which influence/ can influence the proactive orientation of born global firms as being dimension of international entrepreneurship orientation. In the research, seven born global firm in different sectors in Sakarya have been identified and analyzed using qualitative research methods. Case study design was used in accordance with the purpose and nature of study. Study model was reached at the end of the process of analyzing research data. As a result of the research, factors affecting proactiveness of born global firms including the trade fairs, knowledge, management characteristics, networks and trust collected under six headings and explained. Key Words: 1. Internationalization 2. Born Global Firms 3. Small and Medium sized Enterprises 4. International Entrepreneurship Orientation 5. Proactiveness