Knowledge integration methods, product innovation and high-tech new venture performance in China

Combining insights from knowledge-based theory (KBT) and the product innovation literature, this paper explores whether and how knowledge integration methods contribute to high-tech new venture performance in China’s emerging economy. Using data from 295 entrepreneurs and top executives in Chinese high-tech new ventures, we find that both the coordinated integration of knowledge and systemic integration of knowledge have positive effects on high-tech new venture performance and product innovation. Competitive intensity moderates the impact of knowledge integration methods on product innovation. Moreover, product innovation is a mediator in the relationship between knowledge integration methods and high-tech new venture performance. Our findings have important theoretical and practical implications.