Inovación en las mipymes manufactureras de Ecuador y Argentina

Abstract

The paper provides a descriptive analysis of the innovation characteristics of manufacturing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), in respectively Argentina and Ecuador. The study is based on information of the World Bank’s Enterprise Survey conducted in 2010. Parametric tests for comparison of both countries were applied using the chi-square test for qualitative variables and t test for quantitative variables. The processing and interpretation of the consulted databases reveals that the Argentinian and Ecuadorian manufacturing MSME differ in product and process innovation, the level of investment in research and product development. Innovation supporting activities such as spending in R&D on sales, patenting, public sector support are similarities between the two countries.