This study aims at gaining a deeper understanding of the role of networks in internationalization of small firms originating from a cross-border region. Internationalization is viewed as the process of identification and exploitation of international opportunities. The present study specifically seeks to understand how different kind of networks enable small firms to identify and exploit their first and subsequent international opportunities and where (within or beyond the cross-border region). The study employs a multiple-case study design and is built on empirical evidence mainly collected via face-to-face semi-structured interviews with managers/owners/founders of five small firms located in the cross-border region Northern Fyrbodal (Sweden) – Southern Østfold (Norway). Preliminary findings suggest that the roles of business, institutional and social networks as well as regional and international networks differ with regard to i) international opportunities identification and exploitation; ii) geographically/institutionally proximate and distant markets as well as iii) discovery or creation as a means of international opportunities formation.