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A practical methodology to understand how entrepreneurship ecosystems work, identify their structural conditions, and guide evidence-based decision-making.
In 2013, ANDE published the first edition of this model with an idea that remains relevant today: before investing resources to strengthen an ecosystem, it is necessary to understand its current situation. This tool has been adopted by governments, foundations, and development organizations in cities around the world.
This second edition updates the model by integrating insights from 28 international frameworks and the methodologies developed by the Eugenio Garza Lagüera Entrepreneurship Institute at Tecnológico de Monterrey and Seedstars. This update was made possible thanks to the support of Fundación Coppel.
A methodology for diagnosing ecosystems
The model provides a clear way to analyze entrepreneurship ecosystems based on their core elements: the eight structural domains, the participation of key actors, the stages of the entrepreneurial journey, and digital maturity as a cross-cutting component. It enables the identification of strengths, gaps, bottlenecks, and opportunities for coordinated action in each territory.
Who is this for?
The model can be used by governments, universities, entrepreneurship support organizations, funds, corporations, and teams that require a clear baseline to guide actions and resources.
Three diagnostic phases
The model allows for diagnostics ranging from basic assessments to in-depth evaluations. Each phase addresses different questions and uses specific sources of information.
Identifies which actors and conditions exist in the ecosystem, determines the level of maturity, and detects the main constraint. Source: public data (30 indicators).
Analyzes how actors interact in practice, the domains in which they operate, and the stages of entrepreneurial development they address. Source: surveys and desk research.
Provides a systemic perspective that explains the causes behind the identified gaps and indicates where to intervene to generate greater impact. Source: in-depth interviews with key actors.
The model in action: 10 cities in Mexico
During 2025, a first application of the model was carried out in 10 cities across the country. This document shows how the methodology was implemented on the ground and serves as a reference for those seeking to understand the diagnostic process through a practical experience.
Other ecosystem studies conducted by ANDE
For more than a decade, ANDE has studied entrepreneurship ecosystems around the world. These studies, known as Ecosystem Snapshots, focus on identifying and mapping the organizations that support entrepreneurs in a specific geography: investors, accelerators, incubators, academic institutions, government agencies, and more.
Likewise, during 2025 we conducted new diagnostics in Costa Rica and, in collaboration with Bridge for Billions, in Mexico, Central America, and Colombia. The insights from these studies and previous mappings informed the final version of the model we present today.
Interested in applying this model in your territory?
The model is designed to adapt to different levels of institutional capacity and territorial scope. If your organization is looking to diagnose an ecosystem, contact us.