Desenvolvimento endógeno e cooperativismo: análise a partir da instalação da Aurora Coop na região da Efapi em Chapecó, SC

Abstract

This study aims to examine the local development that occurred in the Greater Efapi region in Chapecó, SC. This phenomenon began with the establishment of the former Aurora Alimentos, now Aurora Coop, in the mid-1990s. Significant changes took place in the region following this event. The high demand for labor created by the cooperative after its establishment led many individuals to move to the area in search of employment. Consequently, the population flow in Efapi gradually increased, driven by the need for housing for those seeking job opportunities. With the urban territorial expansion in Efapi, the local commerce across various sectors began recognizing the need to adapt to the changes brought about by the influx of people into the region. These newcomers brought diverse cultures and customs, originating from various parts of Brazil and even other countries. The local development in the region has reached such proportions that, today, Efapi boasts the infrastructure to sustain itself as an independent city, featuring progress supported by a blend of investments that address the needs of a fully functional urban center. Using the Focused Group Discussion (FGD) method to capture the perceptions of residents, 19 representatives were interviewed, including entrepreneurs, workers/residents, public agents, and cooperative managers. The research concludes that the local development in the Greater Efapi region represents a "bottom-up" development, as described by Barquero (2001). According to the participants, it was the establishment of Aurora Coop that spurred growth and development evident today. Therefore, it can be affirmed that the changes observed in Greater Efapi were indeed catalyzed by the arrival of Aurora Coop, a characteristic feature of endogenous local development models.