International Journal of Trade and Global Markets | 2019
Impediments to globalisation and financing of small exporting firms: evidence from Southwest Louisiana
Abstract
The primary purpose of this study is to explore the problems and prospects of internationalisation and financing of small firms using those domiciled in Southwest Louisiana as an example. The data on firm characteristics, extents and sources of local financing and export willingness are collected from the primary source by administering a questionnaire. The survey findings conclude that the small firms in the southwestern region of Louisiana have enormous export potentials. The impeding factors include paucity of export awareness among small firms, and information gap including misinformation about the perceived overall risk, associated with exporting. The fears of international business risks among the small firms seem exaggerated. The export impediments can be overcome by active involvements of the state and local chambers of commerce, Small Business Administration units and the local banks.