Small business entry into international markets

Small businesses encounter problems unique to their size, limited resources and infrastructure while academic literature is limited on their challenges of globalization and partnership issues. They are often owned by equal partners, creating additional complications. Finding a suitable international strategy for growth and diversification as well as understanding practical business solutions for global operations are key variables to guide the decision process. A literature review and analysis of the international experiences of a small Canadian company were conducted to identify risks and resources for global market strategies. This investigation revealed that small companies should capitalize on network and alliance opportunities to gain access to international markets, and consider exporting to test market environments. Good leadership will provide a successful international strategy that fits the small business operations and the company's strategy, while leveraging their core capabilities and competitive advantage into a global niche strategy. --P. ii.