The associative process as competitive advantage in the microempresas, case Quevedo-Equator (Original)

Abstract

One of the main actors in local development is the MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises). However, many have difficulties to stay in the market, so it is necessary to search alternatives such as associativity, to increase efficiency and competitiveness. The present research was carried out through a descriptive study. It tries to analyze if within the local productive system, the microenterprises participate of associative processes in Quevedo, since, they constitute the 96% of the business fabric. For that, 359 microentrepreneurs were surveyed, as well as the main problems that microenterprises in Quevedo are experiencing. There is a clear reality that microenterprises have little participation in associative processes, and the few that are associated, do so with the purpose of improving the marketing of their products. The government's lack of support to improve the competitiveness of micro-enterprises in Quevedo is evident.