Navigating the Labyrinth: Entrepreneurial Barriers in Ecuador and Latin America in the Digital Age

This work analyzes the significant barriers hindering the success of startups and SMEs in Ecuador and Latin America. The objective is to synthesize current knowledge on traditional and emerging challenges within the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem. A mixed-methods approach was utilized, combining a quantitative bibliometric analysis of 205 Scopus documents (2020-2025) with a qualitative review of academic literature, policy reports, and illustrative case studies. The results indicate that alongside persistent obstacles like complex regulations, limited access to finance, and educational gaps, entrepreneurs increasingly face challenges related to technology adoption, the digital divide, low R&D investment, and navigating intellectual property issues in the digital age. Bibliometric trends reveal growing research interest, particularly concerning innovation and sustainability, with significant international research collaboration but potential for greater intra-regional networking. The study concludes that fostering a thriving entrepreneurial landscape requires integrated policies addressing both traditional structural impediments and the critical need to enhance digital infrastructure, innovation capabilities, and support for technology adoption within Latin American SMEs.