IMPACT OF PARTICIPATION IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP FAIRS ON THE INITIAL PERFORMANCE OF START-UPS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF TOLIMA – COLOMBIA

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between participation in entrepreneurship fairs and the early performance of start-ups. A quantitative, correlational, and cross-sectional design was employed with a simulated sample of 80 companies operating for less than twelve months. The independent variable was fair participation (categorized as Yes/No and by the number of fairs attended), while the dependent variables included performance indicators such as average monthly sales (AMS), number of active customers, and formation of strategic alliances. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and regression models were applied. The findings indicate that participation in entrepreneurship fairs enhances the likelihood of achieving stronger outcomes, particularly in the establishment of strategic alliances, although the effects on sales and customer acquisition are more variable.