Percepciones y expectativas de los jóvenes de Machala sobre el emprendimiento como alternativa laboral, en el periodo 2024-2025

Abstract

This study aimed to identify how young people in the city of Machala perceive and project entrepreneurship as an alternative in the face of scare formal employment. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining surveys and interviews with individuals aged 18 to 29 and key institutional actors. The research was framed within the paradigm of sociological functionalism, which enabled the analysis of entrepreneurship as a contributing factor to social balance. The results show that 51.2% of young people consider entrepreneurship a key path to achieving economic independence. However, most ventures are low- investment initiatives, such as fast-food sales or online retail, reflecting a survival-oriented rather than growth-driven dynamic. The main motivators include the desire to generate personal income (21.2%) and achieve financial stability (21.7%). On a social level, young people seek recognition (25.6%) and aim to contribute to local development (23.2%). Despite some progress, structural barriers persist. These include limited access to formal financing, high dependence on family support (34.5%), and a local context characterized by informality. Although policies such as MIES development credits exist, the local ecosystem stills lack the institutional conditions needed to sustain long-term business initiatives. The study concludes that entrepreneurship in Machala is primarily a response to labor market precariousness. However, to become an effective driver of social mobility, it requires stronger public polices, technical training programs, and institutional support. This research provides valuable insights for designing programs that foster a resilient and inclusive entrepreneurial culture among the youth of Machala.