Final answer:
The main difference lies in the existing competencies: an internal new venture uses the company's current competencies to expand, while an acquisition strategy is used when the company lacks certain competencies and purchases another company that has them.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between a company pursuing an acquisition strategy versus an internal new venture strategy is primarily based on whether the company already has the requisite competencies and resources to enter a new industry or market. Choice a correctly describes the distinction: in an internal new venture, a company utilizes its existing competencies to expand into a new industry, while in an acquisition, the company lacks some competencies and hence purchases another company that possesses them. Conversely, an acquisition strategy typically involves the company buying another firm with the needed competencies, resources, or market position, which can help the acquirer quickly establish a presence in the target industry, save time in developing such resources in-house, and potentially reduce costs by acquiring established operations.