Estudio de la innovación en la cadena de valor alpaquera. Caso: Biblián-Ecuador

Abstract

This study focuses on understanding the factors driving innovation along the alpaca value chain in the canton of Biblián. In this area, productive activity faces technical, economic, and social challenges. The study employed a quantitative, non-experimental, and cross-sectional approach, using surveys administered to 32 producers associated with the Socio Bosque program. The questionnaire was validated by experts and demonstrated high internal consistency, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.971, confirming the reliability of the collected data. The results show that although variables such as competitive advantage, technology transfer, and installed capacity did not show a significant relationship with innovation, a positive trend was observed between innovation and associativity culture. This connection suggests that the ability of organizations to work collectively and maintain strong bonds among their members can be decisive in adopting new ideas or practices. Rather than depending solely on infrastructure or access to technology, innovation in this context appears to be more closely linked to social and organizational factors that strengthen a sense of community and collective decision-making. In this regard, this study provides a valuable perspective for developing strategies that take into account not only technical aspects but also human and local factors, emphasizing collaboration as a foundation for advancing toward more sustainable and inclusive forms of production. Keywords: alpaca farming, associativity, value chain, innovation, rural production