EL CAPITAL SEMILLA Y LA ACADEMIA EN LA SOSTENIBILIDAD DEL NEGOCIO DE MUJERES EMPRENDEDORAS BENEFICIARIAS DEL PROYECTO REEMUJER/MIC

Abstract

The research focuses on the impact of seed capital and academia on the sustainability of businesses led by female entrepreneurs benefiting from the REEMUJERPY/MIC Program in Itapúa, Paraguay. The aim of the research is to analyze how seed capital and academic collaboration influence the sustainability of these women entrepreneurs' businesses. The study employs a mixed-method, descriptive, cross-sectional approach, including surveys of 78 women from a total population of 112, who have participated in three calls for the project since 2021, and an interview with a representative from the University Incubator - Entrepreneurial Support Center (CAE). Results indicate that the majority of the entrepreneurs are from urban areas and have higher education. They are motivated by financial independence and have a positive self-perception of their abilities. While they value their management and leadership skills, they also face challenges in organizing and managing the finances of their businesses. The university provides training sessions, but these need to be extended in duration and offer more personalized guidance. Entrepreneurs voiced the need for improvement in areas such as marketing, accounting, technology, and innovation. The financial management of the seed capital is deemed appropriate, but there are opportunities to enhance monitoring and reporting. The REEMUJERPY project has had a positive impact on the female entrepreneurs of Itapúa, but there's a recommendation to lengthen training durations, provide personalized guidance, strengthen financial management, and encourage networking.