| Author | Range | Key Factors of the theory | Specific approaches |
| | Uppsala Internationalization Process Model | The basic assumption of the Uppsala Model is that market knowledge and market commitment affects both the commitment decisions and the way current decisions are performed—and this, in turn, changes market knowledge and commitment. The amount of knowledge of foreign markets and operations is influenced by the number of commitments of resources in foreign markets and vice versa | Theoretical approach |
| | Network approach to internationalization | The emphasis of the network approach is on bringing the involved parties closer by using the information that the firm acquires by establishing close relationships with customers, suppliers, the industry, distributors, regulatory and public agencies as well as other market actors. Relationships are based on mutual trust, knowledge and commitment towards each other. Firm’s position in the local network determines its process of internationalization since that position determines their ability to mobilize their resources within the network. | Practical approach |
| | International Entrepreneurship Theory (IET) | International entrepreneurship theory argues that individual and firm entrepreneurial behaviour is the basis of foreign market entry. Technological advancements, cheap and easy ways to access information and better communication between the countries have helped SMEs to go abroad. | Empirical approach |