Founded in 1955, ICSB was the first international membership organization to promote the growth and development of small businesses worldwide. It accomplishes this through bringing together educators, researchers, policy makers and practitioners to share knowledge and experience in their respective fields.

ICSB promotes the development of knowledge in all areas of business theory and practice and is particularly focused on strategies and policies proven to be effective in sustaining small businesses and entrepreneurship.

Knowledge is communicated through a variety of mediums: conferences, journals, books, bulletins, and a web site. ICSB's annual international conference allows members to share their expertise on the latest business developments and to receive constructive feedback from those researching similar topics. The Journal of Small Business Management is a highly respected forum for the exchange of ideas and practices within the small business and entrepreneurship fields. Timely bulletins are designed to inform members about ICSB activities and members and to share practical knowledge that can impact business activities. The web site provides access to searchable databases that cover a wide gamut of information related to the international business community.   

Sharing business knowledge on a global basis helps both developing and developed countries improve their economic climate and fosters an understanding and appreciation for each country's contribution to the world marketplace.

ICSB currently has 11 country-based or regional affiliates containing members from over 70 countries. Membership comes from four primary groups: educators, business practitioners, government policy makers, and researchers and consultants. The ability to interact and connect with one another through ICSB provides member groups an opportunity to enrich and expand their contributions to the business community. Combining the theoretical and conceptual skills of the research and university communities with the practical knowledge and real world expertise of business managers and policy makers allows for a higher level of understanding among all participants.

Communication among members occurs face to face at ICSB conferences or electronically through ICSB's interactive website. Over the last 50 years many productive partnerships have developed by bringing members together in these ways. The ability to develop these personal and professional contacts in other countries and across cultures gives ICSB members an advantage in the global marketplace.