Rol del emprendimiento femenino en el desarrollo rural con enfoque de lo local en Ecuador

Female entrepreneurship in rural settings is a key driver of economic empowerment and local development, especially in contexts of vulnerability and crisis. This study analyzes the role of female entrepreneurship in the community of Lascano, Manabí, Ecuador, focusing on how entrepreneurial activity can strengthen women’s autonomy and contribute to local productive development. Using a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques and an interpretive model, the research gathered evidence over 24 months of research with 15 members of the Lascano Rural Women’s Association, employing in-depth interviews, surveys, observation, and participation-action. The results underscore the complexity of female entrepreneurship in this context, marked by insecurity and lack of resources. However, sustainable initiatives, such as healthy food production and associative marketing, emerge as effective strategies for improving local economic stability. In conclusion, the study highlights that sustainable entrepreneurship not only drives economic empowerment but also supports community development in Ecuador. These findings underscore the importance of gender policies tailored to local realities to address inequalities and promote greater inclusion in rural areas