This course explores the growth and internationalisation of small and young firms, new ventures and entrepreneurial firms, focusing on entrepreneurship and innovation in global contexts. Students will examine theories of internationalisation entrepreneurship, cross-country institutional differences, and the opportunities and challenges shaping internationalisation of entrepreneurial firm, and SME development in developed and emerging economies. The course also considers the interdependencies between entrepreneurship, innovation, and international expansion in small and new ventures.

6 x 2 hour lectures

3 x 1 hour tutorials

None

None

1. Report; Individual; 1300 words; 75%; ILOs 1-4.
2. Oral assessment & presentation; Group; 10 minutes; 25%; ILOs 1-4.

The course aims to develop students' understanding of the international growth and development of firms from start-up to multinationality, with particular emphasis on entrepreneurial and innovative firms in the early stages of international expansion. Drawing on theories of entrepreneurship, innovation, and internationalisation, the course enables students to critically examine opportunity recognition, business venturing, innovation, and strategies for international growth across diverse market contexts. Students will explore both conventional and emerging perspectives on internationalisation, including rapidly internationalising firms and born-global ventures, while developing the analytical skills to evaluate international growth strategies in practice. Through engagement with real-world cases and company-based projects, the course supports students in connecting theory with practice in international entrepreneurship and innovation.

On completion, students will also be able to:

1. Critically evaluate key theories of internationalisation, entrepreneurship, and innovation, and apply them to develop rigorous, evidence based International Business projects and plans.

2. Analyse firms' resources, capabilities, and market conditions to design and justify foreign market entry strategies, drawing on research and interpretation of information relevant to the international exploitation of technology-based or management-process innovations.

3. Communicate the outcomes of international strategic decision-making clearly and professionally to relevant stakeholders.

4. Evaluate international opportunity recognition and associated strategic issues, including innovation, internationalisation, risk-taking, and proactive planning.