ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at approaches to collaborative practices in the academic literature. It analyzes the selected articles in terms of their theoretical framework, the definitions used, the practices observed, the types of partnerships, the benefits and limitations of collaboration and the success factors of these practices. The chapter provides a definition and classification matrices. It shows the main areas of uncertainty and suggestions for future research. The international new ventures (INV) model sees importance in collaborations between firms in the form of networks. Rapid international expansion is enabled when company founders know how to seize opportunities through their network, knowledge and career experience. Knowledge and networks help the entrepreneur mobilize resources to compensate for weaknesses in internal resources in specific areas. Managers with more international and sector experience can access a broader and more geographically dispersed network than can non-INV SME managers.
