Conference Agenda

In recent years, tourists' interest in nature-based experiences and environmental conservation has been increasing. This study aims to analyze travelers' motivations and segment demand within ecotourism. The research was conducted in two protected areas in Spain: Albufera Natural Park and Serranía de Cuenca Natural Park. A total of 349 face-to-face surveys were conducted. For data processing, factor analysis was applied along with a non-hierarchical segmentation using the K-means method. The findings reveal the existence of eight motivational dimensions in ecotourism: "Personal Development," "Interpersonal Relationships," "Escape," "Building Personal Relationships," "Ego-Defensive Function," "Nature," "Rewards," and "Fun." Additionally, ecotourists were classified into three segments based on their primary motivations: "Multiple Motives," "Nature," and "Reward and Escape." These results may be useful for both public institutions and private companies to optimize the tourism offer, implement sustainable strategies, and design more effective marketing plans.

The effective influence of emotional competencies on the leadership of companies located in Free Trade Zones of Costa Rica, motivates to determine the relationship between the emotional competencies of leaders and their impact on organizational performance. Through a methodological approach based on multivariate analysis using SmartPls 4.1.1.1, it is evaluated how emotional skills such as empathy and self-regulation influence employee motivation, satisfaction and retention. In this work, related concepts and their influence on the outcome of objectives are validated in a company located in a Free Trade Zone. The results of the study indicate that leaders with high emotional competencies not only effectively manage stress and conflicts, but also promote a positive work environment that encourages innovation and creativity. In addition, an improvement is observed in the perception of transparency and equity in decision-making, which increases trust and a sense of belonging among employees. The research concludes that the development of emotional competencies in leaders is crucial for the success and sustainability of companies in competitive environments. The implementation of training and development programs focused on emotional intelligence is recommended to improve leadership effectiveness and, therefore, organizational performance.

Abstract– Honduras has faced a housing deficit since its inception. The objective of this study is to analyze the variations in the housing loan portfolio disbursed with BANHPROVI funds for salaried workers in the city of San Pedro Sula from 2020 to 2023. A mixed-method approach was used, incorporating surveys and a numerical analysis of portfolio balances, the perceptions of the economically active population, and the views of housing loan officers. The study has a descriptive scope, with a non-experimental, longitudinal design, and applies portfolio balance analysis techniques to examine variations and the factors driving these changes. After analyzing all the information, it was found that since 2020, there have been multiple variations in portfolio balances. However, in the last two periods (2022 and 2023), a rebound in disbursements was observed, driven by several favorable credit conditions for borrowers. This indicates an improvement in access to BANHPROVI funds, benefiting many more Honduran families.

This study investigates the impact of adaptability on nanostore performance, emphasizing the mediating role of quality management practices and the moderating influence of environmental complexity. Focusing on nanostores, an understudied retail segment, the research aims to fill theoretical gaps and provide actionable insights for improving strategic decision-making and operational agility. The study highlights that adaptability, which encompasses flexibility and responsiveness as key components, is crucial for performance improvement when integrated with robust quality management practices. Using advanced quantitative methods, including multivariate regression analysis, survey data from 143 nanostore owners and managers were analyzed. The results show that adaptability positively affects performance, with quality management practices mediating this relationship. Environmental complexity, while influencing the adaptability-performance link, presents challenges in highly volatile markets. Future research should address the small sample size and the use of cross-sectional data, considering longitudinal designs that allow for a deeper understanding of the dynamics over time. It would also be valuable to investigate regional variations to enhance the generalizability of the findings across different economic contexts. Additionally, exploring additional mediating factors, such as technology adoption, could provide further insights into the mechanisms influencing the observed outcomes. Nanostore operators are advised to adopt adaptability-driven strategies and integrate structured quality management practices to enhance performance. Policymakers can use these findings to support small retailers, especially in volatile market environments, fostering economic resilience. This research offers novel insights into the role of adaptability in nanostores and contributes to both academic literature and retail practice.