Transnational ties in technology-based sectors: the case of Indian software entrepreneurial firms in Italy

Abstract

The paper aims to empirically analyse the differences present in transnational networking within the same ethnic group. Our study focuses on Indian software firms in Italy, a country where the standard variables defining the structural and agency conditions are weak: these permit to better appreciate the role and impact of ties on the performance of migrant firms. Using a unique, purposely built dataset, we show that firms rely on heterogeneous networks and are involved in different networking activities even when they operate within the same community or insist on the same business environment. This heterogeneity largely influences the role of cross-border ties. Transnational networking and cross-border ties can play very different roles in the competitive behaviour of firms, as they can represent the main asset, a complementary factor or even an accessory element of the business strategy.