International Knowledge Transfer through International Entrepreneurship: A Systematic Review and Research Agenda

Abstract

We conducted a systematic literature review on international knowledge transfer (IKT) via international entrepreneurship (IE), synthesising fragmented research that employs various conceptualisations, methodological approaches and theoretical lenses. Based on a review of 40 articles, we inductively developed an analytical framework comprising four key elements: international knowledge, international knowledge agents, IKT processes and outcomes. Our review identifies three dominant types of international knowledge agents in IE: returnee entrepreneurs, transnational entrepreneurs and international corporate entrepreneurs who actively engage in IKT. Three distinctive IKT processes emerge: one-way knowledge transfer, two-way knowledge transfer and interactive knowledge transfer, which result in outcomes at individual, organisational, regional and national levels, as well as at their intersections. Guided by this framework, we identify and analyse key research themes, highlighting main methodological and theoretical approaches, and revealing significant gaps and inconsistencies. Our paper advances knowledge on IKT via IE by developing an integrated framework that provides conceptual clarity and a cohesive understanding of this intentional, systematic, outcome-oriented process. Our analytical framework facilitates the identification of future research directions along the dimensions of 5Cs: complementarity of knowledge, (re-)contextualisation of knowledge, connectivity of knowledge, community capitalism and cross-disciplinary research.