AI, an ally for entrepreneurs’ growth, is emerging as a key tool to boost competitiveness in the digital economy, according to the BBVA Microfinance Foundation (FMBBVA). This organization supports more than three million vulnerable micro-entrepreneurs in Colombia, Peru, the Dominican Republic, Chile, and Panama, facilitating access to financial services through advanced technology.
Impact in Latin America: efficiency and rural access
In Chile, the Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA) indicates that 44% of tasks in small and medium-sized enterprises—which make up 65% of the business fabric—are optimized with AI. Gabriela Eguidazu, Director of Innovation and Inclusive Growth at FMBBVA, emphasizes its value in remote areas. More than 30% of those served live in rural areas, where chatbots in Peru encourage savings among female entrepreneurs and virtual assistants in Colombia respond via WhatsApp 24/7.
A living example is María Jorge Álvarez, an Asháninka indigenous woman in the Peruvian jungle. With her handicraft stall—jewelry and carvings for tourists—the single mother finances her children’s studies thanks to the mobile banking of Financiera Confianza, which uses facial biometrics and voice recognition. These innovations reduce barriers in places like the Amazon.
AI, an ally for entrepreneurs’ growth in Spain and global challenges
Growing adoption and INE data
In Spain, the National Statistics Institute (INE) reports that 13.39% of micro-enterprises—fewer than 10 employees—integrate AI, an increase of 5.9 points compared to the previous year. FMBBVA notes that new entrepreneurs prioritize digital resources. MIT studies reinforce this: AI increases administrative productivity by 37%, completing tasks in 17 minutes versus 27 without it.
- Hyper-personalization: Predicts patterns for recommendations like on Netflix.
- Biometric authentication: Greater security, similar to Apple’s Face ID.
- Scalability: Collaborates with Microsoft to reach disadvantaged entrepreneurs.
Although only 7% of SMEs incorporate AI due to perceived costs, experts like Francisco Maturana from BBVA highlight its autonomy, where humans validate results. FMBBVA transforms data into progress, combining microfinance and digitalization for effective inclusion.
Historical context and future
Since its founding, FMBBVA has driven technology for economic development, reaching nearly two million entrepreneurs. On World Entrepreneurship Day, this approach confirms that AI, an ally for entrepreneurs’ growth, not only optimizes processes, but also empowers remote communities. In the Dominican Republic and beyond, its adoption promises sustained financial equality.
