Investigating the effect of strategic agility on SMEs international success with the mediating role of network-oriented growth

Today, companies operating in different institutional and cultural environments are facing international strategic challenges. Responding to these challenges requires the ability to be agile and flexible in response to international demands, which requires quick learning from previous experiences. In the meantime, network-based growth can be a key factor to strengthen international success, especially for small and medium-sized companies. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the mediating role of network-based growth in the effect of strategic agility on the international success of small and medium enterprises in East Azerbaijan province. This research is quantitative and one of the types of applied studies. Sampling of this study was done by stratified random method and estimation of sample size was done through Cochran's formula. Data collection has been done through a questionnaire, and the relationships between variables have been analyzed by structural equation modeling with the help of SPSS and SmartPLS tools. The results of this study showed that strategic agility has a direct effect on network-based growth and international success. Also, network-oriented growth has a positive effect on international success. Finally, the mediating role of network-based growth in the relationship between strategic agility and international success of small and medium-sized enterprises was obtained. According to the results of the analysis, it can be stated that strategic agility is a key factor in advancing international steps, and in the meantime, networking and growth through which it is easier for small and medium-sized enterprises to achieve optimal international performance.