A Literature Review involving 39 papers on SMEs’ Iinternationalization in the American Continent

What is it about?

This research reviews the empirical literature about SMEs’ internationalization processes in the American continent, according to information included in the main academic databases. This study makes an in-depth analysis of 39 papers (out of a group of 329) published between 1999 and 2014, contributing to the construction of knowledge and the understanding of research in this field. This work allows identifying patterns and trends, as well as concluding that SMEs’ internationalization research is USA-and-Canada-centered and is largely influenced by four main topics: internationalization theories, strategy, performance and international perspectives. According to the results, it is also concluded that research studies have mainly followed a quantitative approach. Conclusions and interpretations of opportunities for future research are important for both the academic community and the business world.

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Why is it important?

It is possilbe to conclude that SMEs’ internationalization research in the American continent is USA-and-Canada-centered and is largely influenced by four main topics: internationalization theories, strategy, performance and international perspectives. Conclusions and interpretations of opportunities for future research are important for both the academic community and the business world.