This paper investigates the role of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in driving development in a depopulated region of Portugal. The focus is on a small, rural area grappling with substantial population decline, where understanding the potential of entrepreneurial activities and support structures is crucial for economic revitalization and community engagement. The study employs a mixed-methods approach to provide a comprehensive analysis. Quantitative data on economic indicators are integrated with qualitative case studies of local businesses and entrepreneurial initiatives, offering a nuanced perspective on the effectiveness of different ecosystem components. Key elements of the entrepreneurial ecosystem examined include access to funding, mentorship, infrastructure, and regional policies. By analyzing how these components interact and their impact on regional development, the study reveals both the opportunities and limitations of leveraging entrepreneurship as a tool for revitalizing depopulated areas. The findings indicate that while these ecosystem components play a significant role in fostering local economic activity and engagement, their effectiveness can vary depending on regional context and specific implementation strategies. The research contributes to the broader discourse on regional development by providing insights into how entrepreneurial ecosystems can be tailored to address the unique challenges of declining rural regions. It offers practical implications for policymakers, business leaders, and community organizers seeking to design and implement strategies that harness the potential of entrepreneurship to stimulate economic growth and social cohesion in areas facing demographic and economic challenges. Overall, this study underscores the potential of entrepreneurial ecosystems to act as catalysts for development in depopulated areas, while also highlighting the need for context-specific approaches to maximize their effectiveness. By offering a detailed examination of the interplay between ecosystem components and regional development outcomes, this paper adds valuable knowledge to the field of regional development and entrepreneurship.

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Entrepreneurial ecosystem,Regional development,Depopulated regions,Economic revitalization