Desafios enfrentados pelos microempreendedores individuais (MEI’S) diante do cenário de pandemia do Covid-19 no município de Fortaleza-Ce

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, which broke out at the end of 2019, posed unprecedented challenges to Individual Microentrepreneurs (MEIs) in Fortaleza-CE, Brazil. This study aimed to investigate the specific challenges faced by MEIs in the pandemic scenario and identify strategies that could have been implemented to support them. The specific objectives included the analysis of the economic and operational impacts of the pandemic, the assessment of the effectiveness of governmental and private support measures, and the proposition of recommendations to strengthen the resilience of MEIs. The methodology employed consisted of a systematic and comprehensive literature review, using databases such as Google Scholar, as well as governmental sources and relevant organizations. The critical analysis of the sources allowed the identification of patterns, similarities, and differences in approaches and conclusions. The results revealed that MEIs faced multifaceted challenges, including financial constraints, adaptation to new norms, and transition to digital platforms. The effectiveness of support strategies was limited, and collaboration, diversification, and digital inclusion emerged as key areas to strengthen resilience. The study contributes valuable insights to prepare the local entrepreneurial ecosystem against future contingencies, emphasizing the need for collaboration, flexibility, and ongoing support for innovation.