JultikaUniversity of Oulu repository

This Bachelor’s Thesis is literature review that focuses on studying the significance of internal barriers to SMEs’ internationalization. Firm internal barriers are a collection of barriers that arise from companies’ internal capabilities and resources as well as companies’ approach to internationalization, rather than from the external environment. The internal barriers found in this research are related to internal resource deficiencies and attributes that significantly hinder the international growth of SMEs. Barriers related to insufficient information, managerial attributes, human resources, financing and marketing were found to be the most prominent barriers as they were included, in some form, in most of the previous studies. The importance of proactive measures against internal barriers and the importance of building networks arose as relevant managerial implications for SMEs. The results of this research can help SMEs by making them aware of problems that internationalizing SMEs commonly face and giving them a possibility for preparation and proactive measures. In addition to SMEs, the results can also be utilized by policymakers and external service providers contributing to the international growth of SMEs