Internationalization of SMEs: Towards an integrative approach of resources and competences

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) constitute an important part of economic growth and dynamics not only for advanced industrialized countries but also for developing economies. Three approaches explaining the behaviors of SMEs’ internationalization are proposed in the literature: the stage approach, the network approach and the international entrepreneurship approach. The purpose of this article is to review and assess each approach with the aim to better understand the internationalization process of SMEs. We will try to figure out the interrelationships among these approaches by looking into their points of view in common. Then we will make an effort to combine the important dimensions proposed by each approach towards an integrative approach based on the concept of resources and competences.