Performance and management of a university social incubator: methodological development, implementation and adaptation of the porto sul social incubator (2023–2026)

This article analyses the development of management, performance and methodological adaptation within the Porto Sul Social Incubator (ISPS), an outreach project of the State University of Santa Cruz (UESC), developed in partnership with Bahia Mineração (BAMIN) between 2023 and the first half of 2026. This is an applied, descriptive and analytical study employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches, conducted through a case study, documentary research and a literature review. Management plans, reports, activity records, spreadsheets, training materials and institutional dashboards were analysed. The results recorded 653 mobilisation activities, reaching 8,645 people across 28 communities, with 16 entrepreneurs selected and 18 training topics delivered. A substantial increase in advisory sessions was observed, from seven in 2023 to 22 in 2025, accompanied by an increase in average participation. Methodological adaptations were also identified, including the replacement of a formal public call with invitation letters, cohort restructuring, the expansion of training content and the introduction of complementary activities. The study concludes that the ISPS underwent progressive organisational structuring, intensified participant support and demonstrated adaptive capacity, although more systematic indicators of participant retention and enterprise outcomes are still required.