Impact Of The San José Cooperative On The Social And Economic Development Of The Province Of Bolivar Before And After The Pandemic.

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the impact of cooperatives on the socioeconomic development of the province of Bolívar, before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the loan portfolios offered by savings and credit  cooperatives. A quantitative methodological approach was used, utilizing the R programming language and its RStudio environment for data analysis. The research was based on a descriptive and correlational design, with a representative sample of 25 participating officials selected through stratified random sampling and who were credit advisors. Data were collected through structured surveys, semi-structured interviews, and documentary analysis, and processed using descriptive and correlational statistical techniques. The results highlighted that savings and credit cooperatives have been instrumental in promoting financial inclusion and socioeconomic development in the province, especially in rural areas. However, the pandemic generated significant challenges, such as economic contraction and rising
unemployment, which affected cooperatives' ability to maintain their impact. The agricultural and small business sectors were identified as the most benefited by loan portfolios, while the most vulnerable groups, such as women and youth, faced greater access barriers. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between democratic participation in cooperatives and improved liquidity and solvency indicators. In conclusion, cooperativism remains a key tool for sustainable and inclusive development in the province of Bolívar, although strategies to ensure greater equity in access to financial services need to be strengthened. It is recommended to promote public policies that support the resilience of cooperatives and foster the inclusion of historically marginalized groups, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).