University Social Incubators and the Social and Solidarity Economy: Comparative Insights from Argentina and Brazil

Mario Coscarello (), Rodolfo Edgardo Pastore and Paula Arzadun
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Mario Coscarello: Department of Political and Social Science, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy
Rodolfo Edgardo Pastore: Department of Economics and Administration, National University of Quilmes, Bernal B1876, Argentina
Paula Arzadun: Department of Economics and Administration, National University of Quilmes, Bernal B1876, Argentina

Social Sciences, 2025, vol. 14, issue 10, 1-20

Abstract: University social incubators have been emerging as relevant instruments within the Third Mission of higher education institutions, as they contribute not only to entrepreneurship and innovation but also to the promotion of the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE). While the literature on technological and business incubators is extensive, limited attention has been devoted to university social incubators and their role in strengthening SSE initiatives. This article presents partial results of a broader international research project, focusing specifically on the survey data collected in Argentina and Brazil. The comparative analysis highlights that, in both countries, university social incubators are more numerous than in many European contexts. In Brazil, the institutionalization of public programs such as PRONINC and ITCP has enabled universities to consolidate their engagement with SSE, while in Argentina experiences are more fragmented and less supported by stable policy frameworks. The findings show that university social incubators play a distinctive role in supporting cooperative projects, social enterprises, and community-based initiatives. They act as bridges between universities and local territories, fostering inclusive and sustainable development. Finally, the article discusses the managerial implications for incubator managers, universities, and SSE actors, as well as policy recommendations for decision-makers seeking to integrate SSE into innovation and development strategies. In doing so, the study contributes to the international debate on university incubators by moving beyond technology-oriented models and emphasizing their social transformative potential.

Keywords: social and territorial innovation; social incubation; popular; social and solidarity economy; university; public policies; science and technology; Argentina; Brazil (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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