This article explores the adaptation of international business models for European Union (EU) projects, focusing on the Uppsala model’s macro- and micro-foundations within multinational collaborations. The Uppsala model, which emphasizes gradual international expansion, has become a widely recognized framework for understanding how firms expand abroad. The model’s application in EU-funded projects highlights the importance of both macro-level factors (such as policies and regional integration) and micro-level considerations (like firm-specific capabilities and interpersonal relationships) in the success of multinational collaborations. Through case studies of EU collaborative projects, this article demonstrates how the Uppsala model’s principles can be adapted to guide companies in navigating the complexities of cross-border partnerships and creating sustainable, value-generating collaborations within the EU framework.

Uppsala Model, international business models, EU projects

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