CAPITAL AND INTERNATIONAL GROWTH: LESSONS FROM IT COMPANIES FOR SHAPING ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN THE AGE OF INDUSTRY 4.0

This study examines how investors influence the international expansion of IT startups. The research is based on quantitative primary data collected through a comprehensive survey of leading IT startups. The findings reveal that capital providers play a dual role in facilitating entry into foreign markets. Their direct involvement includes proactive support in the internationalisation process, while indirectly, they help overcome barriers such as cultural challenges and market entry risks. Through quantitative analysis, the study highlights dynamics that continue to be essential for understanding investor strategies in today's rapidly evolving business environment. These insights are particularly relevant in the AI-driven era, where data-intensive business models and strong network effects make rapid global scaling a critical success factor. The analysis provides a unique perspective on enduring patterns that are increasingly relevant in the current context, offering valuable lessons for navigating contemporary challenges in international expansion.