Microcredit and Financial Inclusion Policies: The Case of the Technological Incubator of Popular Cooperatives (ITCP-UFMS) in 2024

Abstract

The creative economy, inserted in capitalism, promotes local and social development through solidarity organizations, such as cooperatives, which value self-management and local production. Although it faces challenges such as access to credit and lack of public policies, its role is fundamental in social inclusion and sustainability. This work aims to analyze the perception of ITCP-UFMS incubatees regarding microcredit policies. FUNTRAB, founded in 2003 in Mato Grosso do Sul, operates in the management of work, employment and income policies. Its +Crédito-MS program offers microcredit with zero interest and training, promotes entrepreneurs and encourages the creative economy. ITCP-UFMS, undergoing restructuring, promotes training and commercialization of incubated products. These initiatives strengthen the solidarity economy, family farming and social inclusion in the state. Microcredit programs are essential for the development of solidarity enterprises, mitigating market fragmentation and facilitating access to financial resources. However, barriers such as bureaucracy and lack of information limit its effectiveness. A survey of ITCP-UFMS incubators revealed a lack of knowledge about microcredit and demands for financial support, highlighting the need for training and more effective financial guidance.