Conference: International Congress on Competitiveness and Development of MSMEs 2026 (ICCD-MSMEs 2026)
Date: 29-30 April 2026
Location: Tijuana, México (Online)
Website: https://clusterinmobiliariobc.com/congreso/convocatoria

The 2026 International Congress on Competitiveness and Development of Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (ICCD-MSMEs) was held in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, on April 29 and 30, 2026, establishing itself as an international forum for academic reflection, multidisciplinary analysis, and scientific collaboration aimed at strengthening micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The event was held virtually via the Zoom platform, featuring asynchronous breakout sessions that enabled the participation of researchers, faculty members, entrepreneurs, students, and specialists from various national and international institutions. In addition, the academic activities were livestreamed on the official YouTube channel of the Baja California State Tourism Real Estate Cluster, the event’s organizing body, thereby expanding the reach and dissemination of the knowledge generated during the conference.

Under the theme “Competitive and Sustainable MSMEs: Strategies, Innovation, and Comprehensive Transformation,” the Congress’s main objective was to create a space for academic and scientific dialogue to analyze the factors influencing the competitiveness, digital transformation, sustainability, innovation, and organizational development of MSMEs in local, regional, and international contexts. Similarly, the event aimed to promote the dissemination of applied research, case studies, management models, and business strategies that contribute to the comprehensive strengthening of this productive sector, considered one of the fundamental pillars of contemporary economic and social development.

Contemporary economic development has highlighted the strategic role played by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) as fundamental drivers of growth, innovation, employment, and regional revitalization. In various national and international contexts, these organizations represent not only an essential source of wealth creation but also a key component for social cohesion, the strengthening of production chains, and the building of more inclusive and resilient economies. However, MSMEs currently face increasingly complex scenarios characterized by market globalization, rapid digital transformation, changing consumption patterns, economic uncertainty, and growing demands to incorporate sustainable and socially responsible models into their business management.

Against this backdrop, there is a need to rethink the administration and management of MSMEs through comprehensive approaches that strengthen their competitiveness, adaptability, and innovation. The adoption of new technologies, the professional development of human capital, access to financing mechanisms, collaboration with business clusters, and the development of differentiating strategies are essential elements for ensuring their survival and sustainable growth in highly dynamic and competitive environments.

In this context, the book COMPREHENSIVE MANAGEMENT OF MSMEs: COMPETITIVENESS, TECHNOLOGY, HUMAN CAPITAL, AND MARKETS emerges as the academic and scientific outcome of the 2026 International Congress on Competitiveness and Development of MSMEs. This collective work comprises 20 selected scientific papers, which include research, case studies, theoretical analyses, and methodological proposals related to the competitiveness, innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability of MSMEs.

The publication represents a collaborative effort among researchers, academic bodies, specialists, and institutions of higher education committed to generating knowledge aimed at strengthening businesses and promoting regional development. It also reflects the consolidation of academic and institutional collaboration networks that foster links between universities, the productive sector, and society, thereby promoting spaces for interdisciplinary dialogue on the main challenges and opportunities currently facing MSMEs.

This work emerges as an academic and practical response to this complex and dynamic reality. Its central purpose is to analyze, reflect on, and propose strategies that strengthen the competitive capacity of MSMEs from a comprehensive perspective, considering not only economic and technological factors but also human capital, governance, social responsibility, organizational innovation, and integration into increasingly digital and globalized markets.

Under Theme 1, Competitiveness and Business Strategies, the book addresses innovation models as key elements for the survival and growth of MSMEs in highly competitive environments. It analyzes strategies for differentiation, positioning, and internationalization, as well as the impact of digitalization on operational efficiency and productivity, recognizing that technology adoption is no longer an option but a prerequisite for business survival.

Axis 2, Digital Transformation and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, analyzes the impact of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data on business processes. It discusses automation, the future of work, and the challenges associated with cybersecurity and data protection, recognizing that digital transformation requires not only technological investment but also cultural, organizational, and strategic changes.

Finally, Axis 3, Markets, Marketing, and Commercialization, examines digital marketing strategies, e-commerce, innovation in customer-oriented business models, and consumer trends that are redefining the relationship between MSMEs and their markets. It highlights the need to understand the contemporary consumer—who is increasingly well-informed, digitally savvy, and demanding—as a key element in designing differentiated and sustainable value propositions.

Taken as a whole, this work constitutes a significant contribution for academics, researchers, students, entrepreneurs, consultants, and decision-makers interested in understanding and strengthening the comprehensive management of MSMEs. The book’s interdisciplinary and applied approach bridges theory and practice, offering analytical tools, critical reflections, and strategic proposals that contribute to business, regional, and social development within the framework of the knowledge economy and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.The book is structured around five thematic areas that address the comprehensive management of MSMEs from different analytical and practical perspectives. Each of these areas helps readers understand how organizations can strengthen their competitive capabilities through innovative strategies, efficient management models, and adaptation processes aligned with the demands of the contemporary environment.

Finally, this work aims to serve as an academic and practical reference for researchers, faculty, students, entrepreneurs, consultants, and decision-makers interested in the study and strengthening of MSMEs. Beyond documenting research and experiences, the book aims to provide tools for analysis and reflection that contribute to building more competitive, innovative, resilient, and sustainable businesses—ones capable of effectively responding to the economic, technological, and social challenges of the 21st century.

“Innovation is managing change with vision and purpose”

Blanca Estela Bernal Escoto
President, Tourism Real Estate Cluster of the State of Baja California