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Our qualitative analysis utilises the theoretical lens of the resource-based view and boundary spanning to explore the phenomena of digitalisation as a facilitating mechanism in relation to internationalisation.

Our qualitative analysis utilises the theoretical lens of the resource-based view and boundary spanning to explore the phenomena of digitalisation as a facilitating mechanism in relation to internationalisation. This includes looking at the concept of digital skills as a dynamic capability. We also explore characteristics in smaller towns which are distinctive resources, such as social capital. Our study addresses the question: what is the role of digital capabilities and social capital as firm resources to international boundary spanning for smaller town SMEs and enablers to the internationalisation process? Drawing upon a variety of literature that inhabits the domain of international business and entrepreneurship, the study analyses 10 small firms, through semi-structured interviews, in the Lancashire region of the North West of the United Kingdom. The smaller town has a population of less than 150,000 inhabitants, and explores, through a multi-dimensional perspective, the role of digitalisation, digital tools, digital capabilities, and social capital, as enablers related to firm resources and international boundary spanning. Preliminary analysis and findings reveal that the role digital capabilities and cross-border mobilities play as a sustained competitive advantage aid in the creation of boundary spanning conditions which can lead to new internationalising opportunities. Digitalisation plays a major focus in terms of strategy, and some firms may serve as “digital champions” in smaller town regions. We expand upon the resource-based view to hone a deeper understanding of the combination of digital capabilities and social capital mechanisms which contribute to boundary spanning and sustained competitive advantages for internationalising SMEs in smaller town entrepreneurial ecosystems.