In this dissertation, I strive to enhance our understanding of the effect of entry timing on firm
performance using both empirical and formal modeling techniques. I accomplish this through
addressing three major unanswered issues in entry timing research. In the first essay of my
dissertation, I theoretically examine the effect of selection bias on entry timing associated
performance outcomes via the introduction of a novel concept called First-mover Benefits (FMB)
which is both theoretically and empirically distinct from the traditional First-mover Advantages
(FMA) concept. The second essay of my dissertation empirically investigates this distinction in a
unique entrepreneurial setting: the marijuana retailing industry in the State of Washington. The
randomized order of entry into the geographically separate jurisdictions in Washington State via
the lottery system gives me the opportunity to look at the overlooked effects of two key macrocontingencies:
market growth rate and rivalry intensity without any selection bias concern. The
main result of this essay indicates that pioneering advantages are more likely to be found in markets
with higher level of rivalry intensity. My final essay focuses on the sustainability dimension of
pioneering advantage. Taking advantage of the Washington State marijuana retailing industry
dataset that eliminates the selection bias issue, I examine how long entry timing associated
performance benefits are sustained in this nascent industry context. I find that pioneering
advantages last for only four quarters. Overall, this dissertation helps partially resolve the longstanding
controversy surrounding the potential effect of entry timing on performance.