The corruption–networking–internationalization framework: an antecedent-process-outcome model for entrepreneurial ventures' growth in emerging economies

Purpose This study develops a conceptual framework explaining how corruption shapes the internationalization of entrepreneurial ventures in emerging economies through entrepreneurial networking. It conceptualizes corruption as a multidimensional institutional void that triggers the formation of domestic, regional and international networks and examines how entrepreneurial cognition and effectuation logic condition these processes. The study also accounts for the dark side of networking to explain when corruption-driven relational strategies constrain internationalization outcomes. Design/methodology/approach The paper adopts a theory-driven conceptual approach grounded in institutional theory, international entrepreneurship, networking theory and entrepreneurial cognition. Drawing on an integrative review of interdisciplinary literature, it develops the Corruption–Networking–Internationalization Framework as an antecedent–process–outcome model. The framework specifies causal mechanisms linking different forms of corruption to multi-level networking strategies, moderated by entrepreneurial characteristics and constrained by relational liabilities. A set of theoretically grounded propositions is advanced to guide future empirical research. Findings The study theorizes that corruption operates not only as a constraint but also as a catalyst for alternative governance mechanisms, prompting entrepreneurial ventures to rely on networks as functional substitutes for weak formal institutions. Domestic networks primarily mitigate administrative corruption, regional networks provide culturally proximate trust channels and international networks help firms bypass corrupt domestic systems and accelerate internationalization. Entrepreneurial effectuation logic, entrepreneurial orientation and opportunity-recognition cognition strengthen the translation of corruption-induced uncertainty into internationally oriented networking strategies. However, excessive reliance on domestic, political or corrupt networks can generate over embeddedness, opportunism and de-internationalization risks. Research limitations/implications This study is conceptual and has not been empirically validated across different emerging economy contexts. It does not test the proposed relationships using quantitative or qualitative data. The framework assumes relatively distinct domestic, regional and international network layers, which may overlap in practice. It also does not specify boundary conditions under which networks may produce negative outcomes. In addition, heterogeneity in entrepreneurial cognition and institutional responses to corruption is not directly examined within an empirical setting. Originality/value The study reconceptualizes corruption as an active antecedent shaping entrepreneurial networking configurations rather than merely an exogenous barrier. It introduces a multi-layered view of networks as institutional substitutes and integrates entrepreneurial cognition and the dark side of networking into international entrepreneurship theory. The Corruption–Networking–Internationalization framework provides a dynamic and context-sensitive explanation of entrepreneurial ventures internationalization from corruption-heavy emerging economies.