THE ENTREPRENEURSHIP ECOSYSTEM FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE INCUBATION AND ACCELERATION OF SMEs IN THE PROVINCE OF SANTA ELENA, A CASE ANALYSIS

This study analyzes the entrepreneurship ecosystem at Santa Elena province. This baseline will serve for the management and promotion of the incubation and acceleration of SMEs and startups within the framework of the research project: Management of innovation and technology transfer through sustainable business incubation and acceleration systems in the province of Santa Elena. Methodology: The study variables were approached with a quantitative approach, from the consistency analysis of the data collection instrument, descriptive analysis of the dimensions, and even the deductive contrast of the hypotheses of the relationship between the variables. For this last process, a correlational type of analysis was required. Results: Using an online survey, the small businesses segment, made up of 678 companies, registered with the Superintendence of Companies, was surveyed. Under this survey, a total of 259 valid responses were obtained. Conclusions: With the results obtained, it can be concluded that entrepreneurship ecosystems boost the competitiveness of SMEs and start-ups, and they require the support and technical assistance of business incubation and acceleration systems. These, in turn, contribute to the progress and socio-economic well-being of the province and region.