Determinants of intra-board behavioral integration in high-tech start-ups

Abstract The board of directors’ behavioral dynamics can strongly influence an entrepreneurial firm’s success. Drawing on the theory corporate governance, this study identifies and tests factors that facilitate integration in boards high technology start-ups. We unpack black box behavior with primary data collected from a survey-based sample 149 CEOs Norwegian high-tech start-ups supplemented by quantitative archival information. find intra-board (i.e., members’ propensity to clearly understand one another’s issues needs, actively solve, share relevant information resources) is positively affected greater levels informal communication between members. Next, we inter-board trust members interact absolute integrity, tell truth at meetings, another, keep mutual promises) mediates relationship such higher result concordance frequency integration. then examine role efficacious chair who motivates uses each member’s competence, formulates proposals for decisions summarizes conclusions after negotiation, chairs discussions without promoting their agenda, finding leadership moderates trust. discuss implications these findings practice.