Small Norwegian high-tech firms, similar to Born Global firms, were studied to understand how founder, market, and product characteristics influence their international entry strategies. The founder teams play a crucial role in shaping these strategies by considering the product and market. Product influences entry mode choice, while market affects the pace of internationalization and target markets. Founder experience, especially industry-specific, drives rapid internationalization. Continuous market knowledge adaptation is key, and entry mode should align with product appeal for better distribution. Founder characteristics should be considered when forming teams for new start-ups to maximize capabilities.