LEARNING TO INNOVATE GLOBALLY: HOW INTERNATIONAL ORIENTATION ENHANCES INNOVATION PERFORMANCE

Purpose: This study aims to assess the effects of international growth orientation (IGO) and organisational learning capability (OLC) on innovation performance (IP) in an emerging economy. Design/methodology/approach: We used a survey with closed questions to collect data from a sample of 353 manufacturing firms from Santa Catarina (Brazil). OLC was measured using five dimensions. IGO uses a six-item, one-dimensional scale. IP is a second-order construct with three dimensions. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Findings: Our study shows that the relationship between OLC and IP is positive and statistically significant. In addition, we found that the IGO mediates the effects of the OLC on IP. The theoretical contribution of this study lies in providing a framework that integrates OLC, IP, and IGO in a single model. Practical implications: From a managerial perspective, this research highlights the importance of developing organisational capabilities, such as learning, to enable companies to tap into external markets as sources of innovation, supporting competitive advantage. Originality/value: This advances the theoretical understanding of the interactions between OLC and IP in the manufacturing sector, with an emphasis on the mediating role of IGO. We also contribute to the innovation literature by empirically testing such relationships and providing the mechanisms by which IGO can operate as a mechanism of transmission of the effects of the OLC on IP.