The role of ICT, intrapreneurship and collaborative managementnetworks in innovation and business competitiveness

This research analyzes the relationship between intrapreneurship culture, management collaboration networks, and information and communication technologies on innovation performance, as well as their direct and indirect effects on business performance and competitiveness. Using data from MSMEs in Mexico's trade sector, the study tests fifteen hypotheses across three models, each examining the impact of a causal variable on innovation performance through a quantitative analysis using structural equation modeling. The results indicate significant associations between these factors and highlight the role of innovation in enhancing business outcomes. Additionally, the study considers the profound effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated existing vulnerabilities in Latin American and Caribbean economies, affecting key sectors such as commerce, tourism, and transportation. The conclusions emphasize the varying impact of direct and indirect effects of causal variables (intrapreneurship culture, management collaboration networks, and information and communication technologies) on the mediator variable (innovation performance) and outcome variables (business performance and competitiveness). Across all models, a positive and significant relationship is confirmed between innovation performance and both business performance and competitiveness. However, a stronger association is found between the causal variables and business performance and competitiveness. Based on these findings, the study proposes strategic recommendations for businesses aiming to enhance their performance and competitiveness in dynamic environments.