Internationalization of SMEs: a path analysis between learning processes and business performances

This research focuses on the relationship between internationalization, learning process and business performance of SMEs. SMEs’ internationalization is an extended phenomena. SMEs are becoming aware of the strategic importance of extending their market and their relationships across national boundaries. Network and knowledge based perspectives suggest internationalization does not affect only short time performance but enhances management of organizational processes, competences and internal resources (learning by exploitation), allows to increase the network density, to acquire new knowledge and new opportunities (learning by exploration). A path regression model is used to assess international involvement effectively enhances business performance and competitiveness by affecting the organizational learning process and dynamic capabilities in the long run.