Evaluation of public policies for strengthening the popular and solidarity economy in Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: The evaluation of public policies for strengthening the Popular and Solidarity Economy in Ecuador is a fundamental issue for understanding how the state provides strategies that can contribute to the economic and social development of local communities. This study focused on analyzing the impact and effectiveness of this policy at the Calceta Ltda Savings and Credit Cooperative in the Bolívar canton, which is considered an important institution promoting the solidarity economy. Materials and methods: The methodological design applied a mixed approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, for the collection of information, techniques such as horizontal analysis were used with the main financial ratios of the balance sheets published on the SEPS website, the study population was the Calceta Savings and Credit Cooperative Ltda, with the purpose of obtaining a comprehensive view of the impact, given that it is important to know how public policy (Executive Decree No. 33 issued on May 24, 2021) had significant repercussions within the financial institution, and to analyze whether it is necessary to implement improvements and adaptations to guarantee greater support and sustainable growth. Results: The results reflected the need to optimize financial management and improve operational efficiency to ensure a balance between growth and profitability, the decrease in net income indicates that the cooperative must implement strategies to reduce expenses and diversify sources of income. Furthermore, the stability of its assets suggests that, although the cooperative has managed to maintain its financial strength, it requires a more strategic approach to ensure its long-term sustainability. Discussion: From a more in-depth perspective, the implementation of public policies in the EPS sector must be accompanied by monitoring and evaluation mechanisms that measure their effectiveness. It is important that savings and credit cooperatives have technical and financial support to adapt to regulatory changes without compromising their economic stability. Conclusions: Executive Decree No. 33 has had a mixed impact on the Calceta Savings and Credit Cooperative Ltda., favoring its expansion but also presenting challenges to maximize the benefits of this public policy. It is essential that the cooperative adopt financial optimization and risk management strategies. Likewise, it is recommended that future government policies include accompanying measures to ensure that the strengthening of the cooperative sector is sustainable and equitable.