What defines internal or organic growth for a business?

Internal or organic growth refers to a business's ability to expand its operations and increase its revenues using its own resources rather than relying on external factors such as acquisitions or partnerships. This type of growth typically involves strategies like increasing sales, launching new products, enhancing marketing efforts, or improving efficiencies within the existing operational structure.

The essence of internal or organic growth lies in fostering development from within the company. It emphasizes building upon the company’s core strengths, capabilities, and customer base. This might include investing in employee training, improving product quality, or expanding into new markets without using external means such as buying other companies or forming partnerships.

In contrast, the other options focus on growth strategies that involve external inputs. Partnerships with other organizations and acquisitions of rival companies illustrate methods that leverage outside resources or capabilities. Reducing employee numbers does not relate to growth at all; rather, it is a cost-cutting measure that does not contribute to the expansion or development of the business. Thus, the choice that aligns with the concept of internal or organic growth is the one that emphasizes self-sufficient expansion without depending on external influences.