| Author | Range | Key Factors of the theory | Specific Approach |
| | Transaction Cost Approach (TCA) | The TCA theory is based on the notion that networking provides cost-efficient ways of undertaking transactions. Through networking, SMEs can distribute transaction costs amongst members, thereby reducing the cost that each business incurs. | Theoretical approach |
| | Resource Dependence Approach (RDA) | The RDA theory emphasises the notion that businesses may not have all the necessary human, physical and financial resources to overcome changes and influences from the external environment. Therefore, businesses have to depend on one another by creating networks to access the resources they lack to stay in competition as well as to grow their business. | Practical approach |
| | Social Network Theory (SNA) | The SNA theory takes into account the social relationships which business owners come across in running their businesses, as well as the potential which such interactions have for the formation of networks. | Practical approach |