Job scarcity drives 83% of entrepreneurs in Costa Rica, study reveals

A recent study indicates that a lack of employment opportunities is the primary driver for 83% of entrepreneurs in Costa Rica. The report, a collaborative effort by the University of Costa Rica, the Development Bank, and the Chamber of Industries, profiles the Costa Rican entrepreneur. Despite this high percentage of necessity-driven entrepreneurship, the study also highlights a concerning trend: fewer individuals are inclined to start new businesses. The proportion of the adult population intending to initiate a business venture has seen a sharp decline, falling from 44.9% in 2024 to 22.6% in 2025. This suggests a potential shift in the entrepreneurial landscape, possibly influenced by economic factors or changing perceptions of business viability. The findings underscore the challenges faced by the Costa Rican economy in generating sufficient formal employment, pushing a significant portion of the workforce towards self-employment out of necessity rather than opportunity.