Use of artificial intelligence (AI) in MSMEs in Latin America

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2026-2334

Keywords:

artificial intelligence, MSMEs, AI applications, AI benefits, operational processes, customer service, product customization, service customization

Abstract

Introduction: Given that MSMEs are key but weak components of the regional economy, AI is explored as a transformative innovation, to detail the characteristics, patterns, and trends observed in the implementation of this tool in Latin America. Methodology: The research is descriptive with a documentary design and qualitative approach, based on various sources located in academic databases, as well as reports from international organizations, multinational companies, and specialized web portals. Results: Although there is no precise data on the number of MSMEs using AI in each country, it is evident that, in general, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, and Argentina are leaders in the adoption of this technology, which is used to optimize operational processes (finance, e-commerce, textiles, agriculture, logistics, and transportation), improve customer service (services), and personalize products and services (healthcare, tourism, education). Brazil is a leader in companies with AI-based business models. Conclusions: Challenges for MSMEs in the region include: lack of adequate technological infrastructure, shortage of specialized talent, high implementation and maintenance costs in adopting AI, and integration of AI with existing systems that may require additional allocation of time and resources.

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Author Biographies

Olga Bravo Acosta, Universidad Tecnológica Empresarial de Guayaquil

Biologist, PhD in Regional Development Planning and Management. Research professor at the Graduate School, she develops projects and publications in the institutional research line ‘Business Organisation and Management’, in collaboration with the Ibero-American Observatory of MSMEs and the Foundation for Strategic Analysis and Development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (FAEDPYME), to study strategies that improve the competitiveness of these companies in Ecuador, as well as the relationship between human talent and innovation and performance in MSMEs. With the Ecuador-Colombia Network of Higher Education Institutions (REDEC), he conducts studies in the field of family businesses.

Galo Cabanilla Guerra, Universidad Tecnológica Empresarial de Guayaquil

Economist, PhD in Global Economic Management, PhD in Management Sciences, develops projects and publications in the institutional research areas of ‘Economic systems, international economics, globalisation, development’ and ‘Business management, social responsibility and competitiveness of Ecuadorian companies’; in the latter, especially in the field of Ecuadorian SMEs, types of entrepreneurs, technologies and innovation.

Mara Cabanilla Guerra, Universidad Tecnológica Empresarial de Guayaquil

Commercial engineer, PhD in Global Economic Management, PhD in Management Sciences, she develops projects and publications in the institutional research areas of ‘Education, society and educational technologies’ and ‘Business management, social responsibility and competitiveness of Ecuadorian companies’; in the latter, especially in the field of family business sustainability, entrepreneurship and innovation, in partnership with the Ecuador-Colombia Higher Education Institutions Network (REDEC).

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https://doi.org/10.1007/s10668-024-05101-7

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Published

2026-02-25

How to Cite

Bravo Acosta, O., Cabanilla Guerra, G., & Cabanilla Guerra, M. (2026). Use of artificial intelligence (AI) in MSMEs in Latin America. European Public & Social Innovation Review, 11, 1–18. https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2026-2334

Issue

Vol. 11 (2026)

Section

Cover articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Olga Bravo Acosta, Galo Cabanilla Guerra, Mara Cabanilla Guerra

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