Purpose: The aim of this article is to provide a holistic framework for the acquisition of strategic resources. Design/methodology/approach: The literature dealing with resource creation is reviewed and analyzed from a resource-based point of view. The major methods of acquiring resources are identified through the literature review and the applicability of the framework proposed is illustrated with an empirical example. Findings: Three ways of acquiring strategic resources are identified-- direct investments, organizational processes, and product market positioning. All three ways of acquisition can be intentional or unintentional. Arguments for using this six-dimension scale are provided through deductive reasoning, literature review, and the empirical example. Research implications/limitations: The study identifies the six dimensions of strategic resource acquisition. However, integration of these dimensions is not a subject addressed in this study. Cluster analysis of companies according to these dimensions could enhance our understanding of the characteristics of companies regarding resource acquisition. Originality/value: Whereas previous studies have generally used a single-theory approach, this study highlights the importance of having a holistic outlook when analyzing resource-based competitive advantages. (Contains 1 table, 1 figure and 2 notes.)