The social and solidarity economy in local development

Abstract

Introduction. This document seeks to define the social and solidarity economy from a local perspective in Ecuador, taking into account the different entities involved in local development. It seeks to identify through a qualitative methodology the governmental and non-governmental institution involved in local development, analyzing the progress they have made in the country and whether their purpose operates within it. Objective. To determine the means used by the social and solidarity economy (SSE) to achieve local development through the mobilization of adequate territorial resources applied in customary practice as a response to current societal problems. Methodology. Through a qualitative methodology, we seek to analyze the application of the social and solidarity economy in the local development of the country, expanding the information regarding cooperatives and their operation, their types and their economic contribution to the local market. Results. Through the analysis of the institutions in charge of the administration of the Popular and Solidarity Economy (EPS) and the training of people within this financial sector, it was possible to identify that, due to the inefficient coordination and control of the organizations financed by it, the social and solidarity economy in the country does not potentiate results in favor of local development, despite being oriented to principles of good living that seek to improve the quality of life of the vulnerable population. Conclusions. The social and solidarity economy, with proper management and control, will contribute exponentially to the country's local development. With a greater social focus, and not merely economic, it could promote the creation of different types of enterprises that would generate greater economic returns in the rural sectors of the country.