Perspectives on dynamic capabilities and ambidexterity in born-global companies: Theoretical framing, review and research agenda

Abstract

While research on born-global firms has been subject to broad review, little is known about their dynamic capabilities and the connection of these firms with ambidexterity. To fill this void, we critically examine the extant dynamic capabilities and ambidexterity in born-global firms research from 1996 to 2022. We systematically review 74 articles interconnected with the accumulated but fragmented knowledge on this theme and chart important shortcomings in the existing research. To focus future academic debate and discussion, we therefore propose an integrated conceptual framework that merges this dispersed body of literature, which comprises four core and interconnected themes – knowledge and internationalisation, entrepreneurial orientation, strategy and performance, web resources, and innovation, capabilities and ambidexterity. In doing so, we uncover the role played by dynamic capabilities and the importance of ambidexterity in the adoption, modification or reconfiguration of born-global firm resources. Our review also reveals future research paths hereby identified to support and guide academics and researchers seeking new fields of study and correspondingly demonstrates the need to deepen studies approaching the dynamic capabilities and ambidexterity in these companies.