This research presents the results of phase I in which the perceptions of entre­preneurs from 36 associative production units (upas, in its Spanish acronym) are analyzed about environmental factors. It also discusses the methodological basis for the development of Phase ii that will assess the social and economic impact of entrepreneurs and upas by applying the reflexive comparison method. The main results indicate that the biggest difficulties are represented in legal proceed­ings, trade linkages and lack of partnerships, whereas physical infrastructure, consumption capacity and identification of market niches positively emphasize the role of municipal government support.