Navigating a crisis: The case of Norwegian early stage firms and the impact of the coronavirus

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to explore the nature of a start-up organization during a period of crisis and provide great contextual value on the impact of the COVID-19 crisis in understanding how it impacts newly established technological firms. Through a thorough literature review, a theoretical frame was developed which focused on the structure of firms and the ways in which they behave and respond during ongoing public, health, and economic crises such as the current COVID-19 crisis in which many firms find themselves. The outcome of this mixed-method research of 54 innovative start-ups across Norway serves to provide some interesting insights and may indicate the potential motivation for further research exploring how firms respond during an asymmetric shock such as COVID-19. The first-hand feedback from entrepreneurs provides a few unexpected insights, which further enhances the value of the research.