Article | Journal of Economics & Management Strategy

Diasporas and Domestic Entrepreneurs: Evidence from the Indian Software Industry

by Ramana Nanda and Tarun Khanna

Abstract

This study explores the importance of cross-border social networks for entrepreneurs in developing countries by examining ties between the Indian expatriate community and local entrepreneurs in India's software industry. We find that local entrepreneurs who have previously lived outside India rely significantly more on diaspora networks for business leads and financing. This is especially true for entrepreneurs who are based outside software hubs—where getting leads to new businesses and accessing finance is more difficult. Our results provide micro-evidence consistent with a view that cross-border social networks play an important role in helping entrepreneurs to circumvent the barriers arising from imperfect domestic institutions in developing countries.

Keywords: Diasporas; Entrepreneurship; Software; Information Technology Industry; India;

Format: Print 22 pages Read Now

Citation:

Nanda, Ramana, and Tarun Khanna. "Diasporas and Domestic Entrepreneurs: Evidence from the Indian Software Industry." Journal of Economics & Management Strategy 19, no. 4 (Winter 2010): 991–1012.

About the Authors

Photo
Ramana Nanda
Sarofim-Rock Professor of Business Administration (Leave of Absence)
Entrepreneurial Management

View Profile »
View Publications »

 
Photo
Tarun Khanna
Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor
Strategy

View Profile »
View Publications »

 
Campus Map
Campus Map
Harvard Business School
Soldiers Field
Boston, MA 02163
→ Map & Directions
Copyright © President & Fellows of Harvard College