Unpacking Mexico’s National Entrepreneurship Project 2026

Deputy Patricia Armendáriz of the Morena party recently introduced the National Entrepreneurship Project Mexico 2026, a groundbreaking initiative designed to transform entrepreneurship into a formal state policy. This ambitious plan aims to address the numerous structural growth barriers that micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)—which account for nearly 99% of businesses in Mexico—face daily. Many of these enterprises grapple with inadequate professional training, limited access to capital, and difficulties in market integration, which can severely hinder their growth potential.

Groundwork and Framework

To lay the foundation for this initiative, Armendáriz has utilized insights gained from a series of working groups that convened in late 2025. These discussions brought together entrepreneurs, investors, local government officials, and representatives from academic institutions. This collaborative environment has been essential for shaping the proposal, which aims to create a robust support system centered around financial education, strategic business connectivity, and structured financing. The goal is to move past outdated administrative models, including the now-defunct National Institute of the Entrepreneur (Inadem).

Financial Education: The Heart of the Initiative

Central to the National Entrepreneurship Project is the push for financial literacy. Armendáriz emphasizes the idea that qualitative support is critical when fostering entrepreneurship. As she succinctly puts it, “It is not about supporting entrepreneurship monetarily; it is about supporting entrepreneurship in a qualitative way.”

To facilitate financial education, the project proposes leveraging the Saberes platform managed by the Secretariat of Public Education (SEP). Through this platform, entrepreneurs will have access to specialized micro-courses in financial literacy. Successful completion of these courses will lead to certification, which would then be a prerequisite for accessing government-supported resources. Drawing from her experiences on Shark Tank México, Armendáriz noted that understanding financial indicators is vital for the survival and success of startups.

Unlocking Opportunities through State Hubs

Once entrepreneurs receive their certification, they can benefit from State Hubs—dedicated centers operated by business chambers and financial specialists. These hubs will not only foster critical connections, but also match emerging startups with established companies ready to host pilot projects and facilitate market testing.

The connectivity model within these hubs focuses on several key areas:

1. Incubation Programs: Initiatives like Jóvenes Construyendo el Futuro will integrate new startups into existing corporate ecosystems, providing them with invaluable resources.

2. Academic Integration: Hubs will enable access to university laboratories and research infrastructure, allowing for technological advancements that can lift startups to the next level.

3. Access to Capital: The project proposes organizing trade fairs and networking events aimed at connecting entrepreneurs with “smart capital” and professional investment networks, ensuring that funding is not just accessible but also strategically aligned with business objectives.

The Ministry of Economy will coordinate this ecosystem, utilizing its sectoral expertise to develop regionally and industry-specific growth strategies.

Financing with a Fresh Perspective

One of the more revolutionary aspects of the National Entrepreneurship Project is its proposed financing model, which expressly avoids non-repayable subsidies. Armendáriz asserts that there will be no “sunk funds”—the project aims to provide financing through repayable credit available from Banco del Bienestar, contingent upon the certification and validation of a business plan by a designated State Hub.

This structured financing model is particularly vital for SMEs looking to expand operations—whether through digital tools or investments in productivity-enhancing equipment. The emphasis is on tying funding directly to productivity gains, competitiveness, and long-term viability, ensuring that businesses are built on sustainable financial practices.

Legislative and Programmatic Considerations

The proposal has been presented to Minister of Economy Marcelo Ebrard and is currently under review. Whether it will manifest as a formal law or as a ministry-led program remains to be seen. Armendáriz envisions this initiative as a medium-term strategy, projecting that the development of both the certification system and the hub network could take around two years.

Armendáriz has deliberately positioned this initiative as a vital mechanism for improving MSME productivity, which she argues is crucial for Mexico’s economic well-being. The health of these businesses is a linchpin for employment and a pivotal driver of GDP growth, underscoring the importance of such well-thought-out entrepreneurial policies in shaping Mexico’s economic future.