Álvarez Sánchez, Ana
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Álvarez Sánchez, Ana
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Quito
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anaalvare@uti.edu.ec
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58984098500

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Integration of Digital Repositories and Social Networks in Behavioral Informatics for Social Enterprise Education

2025 , Álvarez Sánchez, Ana , Suárez del Villar, Alexis , José Erazo-Quelal

This study investigates the importance of social entrepreneurship as a tool for solving social problems through innovative and sustainable approaches, through the application of qualitative methods, including observations, interviews and workshop surveys, opinions were gathered from students, facilitators and external collaborators to identify key areas in the teaching of social entrepreneurship. The results show that the integration of technology is fundamental, with a notable increase in the use of digital platforms that facilitate the creation of support networks and accessibility to educational resources. Additionally, the study highlights the need to implement sustainable practices in the training of entrepreneurs, focusing on the importance of developing an ethical and responsible approach to the management of social enterprises. The analysis reveals that an interdisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from economics, sociology and technology, is essential to formulate innovative proposals that effectively respond to social needs, and emphasizes the importance of experiential learning, with 75% of the programmed analyzed incorporating practical projects and community workshops to develop entrepreneurial skills and a deep understanding of social challenges. This approach allows students to apply theory in real-world contexts, enhancing their preparation for future professional challenges. The research concludes that, to maximize the social impact of entrepreneurship, it is crucial to foster curricular adaptation towards emerging technologies, sustainable practices and interdisciplinary collaboration.

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Social Innovation and Legal Strategies to Boost Entrepreneurship Among Women in Vulnerable Situations

2026 , Álvarez Sánchez, Ana , Estrada Murillo, Erlin Ricardo , Sigcha Onofre , Adriana Carolina

The main objective of this study was to analyze how legal knowledge and social innovation influence the growth and sustainability of these women-led ventures, considering individual and structural factors that affect their performance. A mixed method approach with a descriptive and exploratory design was employed, based on surveys conducted with 120 female entrepreneurs and 15 semi-structured interviews with experts in law and social innovation. The primary evaluation criterion was the level of entrepreneurial growth, measured through income and community outreach, in relation to legal knowledge and social innovation. Statistical analysis (SPSS) and qualitative thematic analysis (NVivo) were used. A positive correlation was found between legal knowledge and growth (r = 0.56, p < 0.001), and an even stronger one with social innovation (r = 0.62, p < 0.001). Entrepreneurs who applied legal strategies and innovative practices reported higher levels of business sustainability. The interviews reinforced these findings, highlighting the need for legal advice and collaborative networks as key enablers. Furthermore, the study revealed that limited access to financial resources, lack of adequate training, and structural gender inequalities further deepen the challenges faced by these women. The study demonstrates that the synergy between legal strategies and social innovation significantly drives the development of vulnerable women’s enterprises. It is recommended to strengthen public policies aimed at providing free legal support, simplifying administrative procedures, and promoting collaborative practices. Future research should consider a longitudinal approach to evaluate sustainable long-term impacts, as well as explore the role of digitalization and access to technology in the expansion of these ventures. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.

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Integrating Virtual Educational Environments and Social Networks in Learning Entrepreneurship and Social Innovation: A Personal Experience

2026 , Álvarez Sánchez, Ana , Suárez del Villar, Alexis

In a global context where social challenges are intensifying, technological innovation in social entrepreneurship is an essential tool to catalyze positive change. This study set out to assess how the integration of advanced technologies can enhance the impact and sustainability of social projects. In this research meticulously designed to ensure replicability, we adopted a qualitative approach, delving into personal experiences and their interaction with consolidated theories of social entrepreneurship and innovation. We used content analysis and case studies, along with workshops and semi-structured interviews to explore the applicability of these theories in practice. The sample included 150 social entrepreneurs and 50 academics, selected to reflect recent and relevant experiences. The main methods of assessment covered the effectiveness of the theories in solving concrete problems and their ability to foster collaboration and sustainability of the projects. The main assessment criterion was the applicability of these theories in real contexts, mainly evaluating how they influence the effectiveness, collaboration and sustainability of the projects. The results indicate that the integration of technologies improves the perception of social impact by 40% and the sustainability of projects by 50%, with a 30% increase in community collaboration and a 45% increase in the efficiency of interventions. The research confirms that technological innovation not only strengthens the social and economic impact of ventures, but also promotes deeper and more effective collaboration among stakeholders. This underscores the need to integrate modern technological solutions to effectively address social challenges, suggesting a more integrated and community-supported approach to future social entrepreneurship research and practice. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.

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