Intangible resources, absorptive capabilities, innovation and export performance: Exploring the linkage

Résumé

The main goal of this study is to analyse the influence of intangible resources and absorptive capabilities on export performance, considering the mediating effect of innovation. Based on survey data from 247 Portuguese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) findings suggest that: (1) Intangible resources has a positive influence on absorptive capabilities, innovation and on export performance; (2) Absorptive capabilities has a positive influence on innovation and on export performance; (3) Innovation has a positive influence on export performance; and (4) Innovation has a mediating effect on the relationship between intangible resources and export performance, the same does happens on the relationship between absorptive capabilities and export performance. This study provides novel insights into strategic management literature by trying to understand the SMEs business growth. Moreover, this paper presents further evidences of the strategies that small firm managers should pursue and policy makers should promote. © 2019, Springer International Publishing AG, part of Springer Nature.