The early development of internationalising companies has previously been studied in terms of the factors that contribute to their success, such as networks and entrepreneurial skills. International new venture companies differ from other internationalising companies in the speed at which they internationalise. In the development of new products, where success is a critical factor for the longevity of these companies, customer and market orientation have been found beneficial. The new product development process is part of the early develop-ment process, which has not been considered in a comprehensive way for these companies. For this reason, the study seeks to identify factors that influence the new product develop-ment process of international new venture companies. In addition, it will examine the bene-fits of networks and how certain challenges associated with foreignness, such as scarcity of resources, affect the process.

The research approach is qualitative, using a multiple case study method. Case data were collected using semi-structured interviews. The interview data resulted in four different cases which are based on Finnish international new venture companies offering a digital service or product.

The results of the study show how the new product development process is strongly linked to the values of the entrepreneur, as their goals and character were directly reflected in the development objectives. The results also suggest that the use of networks is highlighted in the early stages of new product development when they verify the concept and help to de-fine it. They also transmit information and can even opportunities.

These findings contribute to the literature on the early development of rapidly internationalising companies. The research also contributes to understanding the new product development of a company offering a digital product or service, which will continue to grow in importance regarding digitalisation and company survival.