ENTREPRENEURSHIP, CULTURE AND SOCIAL ECONOMY IN THE SUSTAINABILITY OF A MOUNTAIN TERRITORY

Abstract

Montemuro Mountain, in Portugal, is an economically and socially disadvantaged mountainous territory, with a scarce and aged population and extremely adverse climate conditions. The objective of the work is to analyze the impact of initiatives in the areas of entrepreneurship, culture, and social economy on regional sustainable development, at direct level through job and income creation, and indirectly by positive externalities generated. The methodology was focused on documentary research and conducting interviews. The results indicate a great positive impact, reinforcing the importance of supporting these types of experiences in terms of public policies, capable of fostering individual and community life and ensuring the survival of the territory.