Internationalisation paths for a cleantech start-up prospecting to take a circular idea into the international market

Abstract: Throughout history, there have been several theories conducted regarding the internationalisation process, perhaps the majority concerning the traditional company. However, this degree project focuses on the applicability of internationalisation theories in regards to cleantech start-ups with circular ideas, hence a fundamental shift from the traditional linear business model. By conducting qualitative interviews with a cleantech company and a potential client company, this degree project evaluates the internationalisation paths and bundles suitable for a cleantech start-up aiming to enter the international market arena. The results show the prominent path to be that of expanding together with an international company. Along with the prominent internationalisation path, a unique combination of the Uppsala model and the network theory is presented combining less risks and mutual benefits for the two parties involved. Further, two other internationalisation bundles are proposed in case an international company cannot be accessed; the bundles consist of one with a short-term perspective and the other with a long-term perspective. To conclude, one can regard that even though the selected internationalisation theories are traditional by nature, they provide a solid base which indeed can be used to recognise patterns in a more recently created company if the theories can be modified somehow to fit the circular ideas of the company.