Impacto de los negocios inclusivos en el desarrollo sostenible de comunidades rurales vulnerables del cantón Sucre.

Abstract

The study aimed to analyze the impact of inclusive businesses on the sustainable development of rural communities in the Sucre canton, Ecuador, a region characterized by high levels of poverty and inequality. To this end, a mixed research approach was adopted that combined surveys, semi-structured interviews and analysis of specific cases, allowing for the collection of both qualitative and quantitative data. The results showed that inclusive businesses contributed significantly to poverty reduction, job creation and strengthening local capabilities, by incorporating marginalized sectors into their value chains as producers, suppliers or consumers. Participants acquired new skills and accessed previously inaccessible markets, strengthening their economic resilience. However, these models faced important obstacles, such as lack of access to financing, limited institutional support and difficulties in guaranteeing their long-term financial sustainability. In environmental terms, a positive impact was evident in the efficient use of natural resources and the implementation of responsible agricultural practices in certain communities. However, problems such as deforestation and inadequate waste management persisted. The study concluded that inclusive businesses are a viable tool to catalyze sustainable development in the Sucre canton. However, its success depends on a comprehensive vision that encourages collaboration between the public and private sectors and civil society, along with the implementation of inclusive policies, training programs and strategies that guarantee its economic, social and environmental sustainability.