Drivers of food SMEs network success: 101 tales from Norway

The aim of this article is to point out the drivers of success for networks. In spite the fact that networks have received considerable attention, and is perceived as one of the few policy driven activities with some degree of success for enhancing innovation in small and medium sized enterprises, a literature review reveals that there is scarce knowledge about the important success factors of such networks.The data material in this article is unique and comprehensive, and constitutes a rich basis for a comparative case study of 101 SME networks. Our findings show that the success of a network depends on controllable factors like network design, the content and structure of the organized meetings, and the network management. Additionally, uncontrollable factors such as team spirit, involvement, internal anchoring, and willingness to share knowledge also play a role.

► The aim of this review is to highlight the drivers of success for networks.
► The data material reviewed is a case study of 101 SME networks.
► The success of a network depends on network design, network content and network management.
► Team spirit, involvement, internal anchoring, and willingness to share knowledge also play a role.