This special issue examines how firms organize and grow to achieve exceptional performance in response to rapid technological change, globalization, and increasing interconnectedness. The collection focuses on novel organizational forms—such as hidden champions, niche leaders, scaleups, and blitzscalers—that enable firms of different sizes and ages to approach the innovation and productivity frontier while maintaining efficiency and resilience.
The issue welcomes research investigating organizational structures, processes, and governance models that allow firms to outperform competitors across regions, industries, and economic contexts. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding how firms balance internal capabilities with external partnerships, adopt digital technologies, orchestrate global value chains, and navigate policy environments. Research is encouraged from diverse geographic contexts beyond traditional OECD and Western-focused perspectives, including emerging Asian economies and developing regions.