Prevalence of the born-global phenomenon in different countries: an integrated perspective

Abstract

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to analyze how factors such as innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and motivation, as well as various economic and environmental factors, affect the creation of born-global (BG) companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The research model was tested through logistic regression techniques to a sample obtained from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor data set for the period from 2007 to 2016.

Findings

Empirical findings suggest that innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and motivation, as well as government policies, contribute to a company’s likelihood of becoming BG.

Originality/value

Recent research has shown interest in the development of explanatory models of BG firms that allow the study of how context and institutions affect the development of international business activities. Following an integrative and a multidisciplinary approach with a temporal dimension, this study expands the literature by comparing countries with different income levels and analyzing macroeconomic aspects along with certain characteristics of the entrepreneur and the environment as possible determinants. This study provides a better understanding of the prevalence of the BG business phenomenon by paying attention to country characteristics and how they affect the traits of individuals.