This edited volume explores one of the defining phenomena of the contemporary global economy: the internationalisation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Once constrained by limited resources, geographic distance, and restricted market access, SMEs now operate in interconnected international ecosystems shaped by globalization, digital technologies, and evolving institutional environments. Yet international expansion remains complex, especially across culturally diverse and institutionally heterogeneous contexts.
Bringing together perspectives from international business, institutional theory, cross-cultural management, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation, this volume examines how informal institutions, cultural intelligence, and digitisation influence SME internationalisation. With a comparative focus on Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and Asia, it demonstrates how informal institutions can compensate for institutional voids while fostering innovation. By emphasizing "soft infrastructure" as a strategic asset, the book challenges approaches that prioritize formal institutions alone and offers a more comprehensive framework for understanding SME growth across borders.

Robert Dygas, PhD, Assistant Professor at SGH Warsaw School of Economics, specializes in geoeconomics, international business, and Asian economies. He has over 23 years of professional experience in multinational corporations across IT, telecommunications, and the public sector, and has edited and co-authored several international research monographs.

Magda Górska Grginović, PhD, Assistant Professor at SGH Warsaw School of Economics, has over 15 years of experience in manufacturing firms and multinational corporations. Her research focuses on SME internationalisation, entrepreneurship, digital and green transitions, competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability.

Elena-Mădălina Vătămănescu, PhD, Full Professor at the National University of Political Studies and Public Administration (SNSPA), Bucharest, research SME internationalisation, knowledge management, intellectual capital, entrepreneurial communication, and sustainability. She has published over 100 scholarly works.

Prana Krishna Biswas, Visiting Professor at Nalanda University, India, has over 42 years of experience in management education. His expertise includes public policy, social entrepreneurship, ESG, sustainability, and development management. He has published extensively and completed more than 55 funded research projects