Dynamics of networking knowledge and internationalization of the Finnish cleantech SME
Evtikhevich, Ekaterina (2017)
Pro gradu -tutkielma
2017
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi-fe201706217409
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi-fe201706217409
Tiivistelmä
The aim of this master’s thesis was to examine and increase knowledge on Finnish cleantech SME internationalization from network perspective. Further objective included identifying possible networking knowledge from earlier internationalization process that might be utilized to facilitate new market entry process. The theoretical framework was based on SMEs internationalization and knowledge transfer literature. Moreover, this study aimed at bringing more knowledge about cleantech sector in general and cleantech in Russia and in Sweden in particular.
The study is a qualitative study, in which the research method adopted was a case study. The empirical part was implemented by collecting data through semi-structured interviews with one of the case company’s founders, observations and by going through internal documents of the company.
The empirical findings indicated that due to the differences between cleantech markets in Russia and in Sweden, the amount of networking knowledge that can be utilized is limited. In Russia, social network relationships were found to be of a great importance. On the other hand, in Sweden the focus should be kept on institutional relationships and business relationships because of Sweden’s high level cleantech expertise and commitment towards environmental sustainability. Moreover, some other knowledge that was identified as being useful for the case company refers to partner selection process and some possible internal and external factors affecting network establishment and new market entry.
The study is a qualitative study, in which the research method adopted was a case study. The empirical part was implemented by collecting data through semi-structured interviews with one of the case company’s founders, observations and by going through internal documents of the company.
The empirical findings indicated that due to the differences between cleantech markets in Russia and in Sweden, the amount of networking knowledge that can be utilized is limited. In Russia, social network relationships were found to be of a great importance. On the other hand, in Sweden the focus should be kept on institutional relationships and business relationships because of Sweden’s high level cleantech expertise and commitment towards environmental sustainability. Moreover, some other knowledge that was identified as being useful for the case company refers to partner selection process and some possible internal and external factors affecting network establishment and new market entry.