Direct Economic Impact of Academic Events on the Local Economy: A Case Study of Academic MICE at the State University of Milagro
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63688/zmvmy694Keywords:
academic events, academic MICE, direct economic impact, academic mobility, local economyAbstract
This study aims to evaluate the direct economic impact of academic events organized by the State University of Milagro (UNEMI) on the local economy of the city of Milagro, Ecuador. A quantitative approach was adopted using a non-experimental, cross-sectional, and descriptive-relational design, employing a structured survey applied to a sample of 500 participants during 2025. The instrument demonstrated adequate internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.87). The analysis included descriptive statistics and relational analyses aimed at identifying associations between variables through independent samples t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple linear regression. The results indicate that 75% of attendees come from outside the canton and exhibit significantly higher spending levels than local residents (p < .001). Furthermore, an estimated annual direct economic impact of approximately USD 4,155,000 was identified, mainly concentrated during final examination periods due to their high frequency and attendance volume. Expenditure was primarily directed toward accommodation, food, and transportation, generating direct effects on key sectors of the local urban economy. Finally, the study proposes the concept of academic MICE as a conceptual extension of event tourism applied to the university context.
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