Educational innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems in Mexico

Abstract

This study examines the current state of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Mexican universities using the 5-Pillar Model (comprising University, Industry, Government, Socio-ecological Environment, and Culture/Digital) in conjunction with the 360-degree approach, aiming to identify structural challenges and strategic opportunities that strengthen innovation in education. The E2CB tool (Survey on Entrepreneurial Ecosystem and Soft Skills) was developed and used with a sample of 150 students from the University Center of Los Altos (CUAltos) during the 2026A semester. This tool examines the perception of the ecosystem through its five components, the development of six essential soft skills, and the gap between entrepreneurial intention and actual confidence in innovating. A descriptive and comparative analysis was conducted using radar charts, bar graphs, and maturity matrices. A notable paradox was identified: 85% of students express a desire to be entrepreneurial, but only 18% feel confident in creating highly innovative products. Innovators, and only 45% believe that the university offers the necessary tools. The University axis was the best rated (4.2 out of 5.0), followed by Culture/Digital (4.0 out of 5.0) and Socio-Ecological Environment (3.9 out of 5.0), while Industry (3.4 out of 5.0) and Government (3.1 out of 5.0) had the greatest differences. In soft skills, Social Responsibility (4.5 out of 5.0) and Critical Thinking (4.3 out of 5.0) stand out; however, Adaptability (3.6 out of 5.0) and Leadership (3.8 out of 5.0) need strengthening. The maturity matrix of the 360 Approach reveals strengths in curricular and digital components (level 5 in CUAltos), but shows weaknesses in external linkage (level 3) and extracurricular activities (level 4). University entrepreneurship in Mexico faces a significant gap between aspirations and execution capacity, caused by a limited connection with the industrial sector, little access to government support, and a lack of practical experiences that foster entrepreneurial confidence. The 5-Pillar Model and the 360 Approach provide a comprehensive framework for creating systemic interventions that unite curricular training, extracurricular activities, strategic links, digital infrastructure, and institutional culture. The opportunities identified include: strengthening incubators in universities, creating networks between institutions and industry, facilitating access to public funding, integrating learning based on real-world challenges, and creating mentoring programs to close the confidence gap. This research offers empirical evidence and an operational model that can be replicated to transform the university entrepreneurship ecosystem in Mexico toward a sustainable and competitive innovation approach.