This article investigates the microfoundations of different stages of development of dynamic capabilities (DCs) in international joint ventures (IJVs). We conducted case‐based research for three heterogeneous IJVs in the Indian life insurance space. Data collection involved detailed interviews and access to other archival data. Results offer interesting insights on (1) the process of the development of dynamic capabilities and (2) the relative importance of different stages in the development of dynamic capabilities. Sensing and seizing are the two stages in which dynamic capabilities are built, and reconfiguration/transformation is inherently subsumed within the stage of seizing. We also found that broad‐spectrum parental contribution across different functions impedes the development of dynamic capability. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.