Purpose:
With the increasing competition in global markets, the internationalization of knowledge-based companies has become a necessity. Achieving this requires a dynamic and coordinated innovation ecosystem capable of synergistically supporting these companies. The purpose of this study is to explore the role of the innovation ecosystem in the internationalization of knowledge-based companies.
Design/Methodology/Approach:
To identify and analyze the role of innovation ecosystem components in the internationalization of eight knowledge-based companies from the Export Excellence Club, the case study method was employed. This group includes four five-star and four four-star companies. The research adopts a qualitative approach, an applied orientation, and a descriptive perspective. A deductive approach was used for qualitative content analysis. Based on the selected model, the study considers actors, activities, artifacts, institutions, and their interrelationships (co-evolution/specialization, cooperation/complementarity, competition/substitution) as components of the innovation ecosystem to structure the analysis of its impact on the international activities of the companies.
Findings:
The findings indicate that governmental organizations, such as the Science and Technology Deputy, the Innovation and Prosperity Fund, the Central Bank, and affiliated banks; domestic and foreign companies, both public and private; universities and research centers; business consultants and specialists; brokers and intermediaries, such as technology and trade attachés; trade delegations, associations, and syndicates; play a critical role as actors. Key activities include funding, research and development, market feasibility, education and training, consultancy services, and the establishment of international offices. Hard and formal institutions such as laws, regulations, government policies, and support programs are crucial. Artifacts like knowledge, technology, resources, capital, products and services, and platforms also play an essential role. Furthermore, the relationships and networking within the ecosystem, including competition and substitution in domestic relations, international cooperation and interaction, consortium formation, strategic collaborations, engagement with universities and research centers, and partnerships with global industrial giants, are key drivers in the internationalization process of knowledge-based companies.
Research Limitations/Implications:
The findings of this article can aid in the development of policies and support programs to enhance the international activities of knowledge-based companies and provide actionable recommendations for policymakers and practitioners.
Practical Implications:
Practical recommendations derived from the findings include implementing international training programs for managers and staff, establishing a centralized and independent institution for knowledge-based export, offering efficient loans with diversified collateral options and credit lines, utilizing legal consultants with international expertise, and creating secure and fast financial transaction channels.
Originality/Value:
This study provides a comprehensive examination of the role of the innovation ecosystem in the internationalization of knowledge-based companies, a relatively under-researched area in the Iranian context.
Funding
No financial support.