Gearing up for growth: the growth process of new ventures at the base of the pyramid

Abstract

There is need for more empirical-based knowledge on the growth process of new ventures. In this paper, we examine the combination and sequence of the growth modes used by a growing new venture to achieve scale at the base of the pyramid (BOP). Our case study reveals a growth process involving resource management to overcome contextual challenges which leads to shifts in the growth modes of the venture. We contribute to firm growth literature and demonstrate how new ventures may successfully grow through resource management, in a resource-poor environment and how this influences their growth path.