Financiamiento y formación de unidades de Económica Popular en el municipio del Socorro – Santander: caso de aplicación de los lineamientos de políticas públicas dadas por la Ley 2294 de 2023

Financing and formation of Popular Economic units in the municipality of Socorro – Santander: case of application of the public policy guidelines given by Law 2294 of 2023

Abstract

The Final Peace Agreement (2016) and the 1991 Constitution highlight the importance of the
popular economy as a tool to reduce inequalities and guarantee labor rights. Law 2294 of
2023 (National Development Plan 2022-2026) promotes public policies to formalize
microbusinesses, support vulnerable groups (women, victims of the conflict, farmers), and
foster productive inclusion. In Socorro (Santander), the Municipal Development Plan 2024-
2027 aligns its programs with this law, focusing on sustainable tourism, job training, and
agriculture. Through national and local calls for proposals, business plans have been funded
and entrepreneurs have been trained, although challenges such as limited access to resources
and low program outreach persist. Surveys of 20 people revealed that only 15% have received
support, and 80% consider the policies ineffective, citing lack of funding as the main barrier.
However, 65% acknowledge that these initiatives have reduced poverty. The conclusion is
that, although the implementation of Law 2294 in Socorro has generated progress, it is
necessary to improve communication and broaden access criteria to maximize its impact. The
popular economy, key to local revitalization, requires greater coordination between national
and municipal entities to strengthen formalization, decent employment, and equity. The
hypothesis is confirmed: well-implemented public policies can transform socioeconomic
realities, but their success depends on adapting to the specific needs of the community.