Frugal Innovation in a Business Context
A Bibliometric Review from 2011 to 2024

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.12804/revistas.urosario.edu.co/empresa/a.15397

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Published: May 12, 2026
Issue: Vol. 28 No. 52 (2026)
Section Review article


Keywords: Frugal innovation enterprises scientific production thematic trends bibliometric research

Main Article Content

Authors

  Karen Martínez Rubio
Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México
  Alejandro Delgado Cruz
Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México
  Elva Esther Vargas Martínez
Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to analyze the current state of frugal innovation by identifying its scientific production, thematic trends, and applications in the business context. Methodology: A bibliometric research was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection database. A total of 579 articles were initially retrieved, and after applying inclusion criteria, the final sample comprised 193 articles published between 2011 and 2024. The specialized software CiteSpace and Tree of Science were employed for data analysis and visualization. Key Findings: There is a growing interest in frugal innovation as a response to sustainability challenges in resource-scarce environments. Furthermore, the study highlights its connection to the Sustainable Development Goals, the emergence of various research trends, and significant international collaboration aimed at consolidating the field. Conclusions: Advancing research on frugal innovation will not only contribute to expanding knowledge in this domain but also enhance sustainability strategies through public policies, collaborative initiatives, and the transition toward more responsible resource management.

Author Biographies

Karen Martínez Rubio, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México

Maestra en Estudios Turísticos y Licenciada en Turismo por la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, México. Filiación institucional: Facultad de Turismo y Gastronomía, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México.

Alejandro Delgado Cruz, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México

Doctor en Administración y Alta Dirección, Maestro en Estudios Turísticos, Especialista en Administración de Empresas Turísticas y Licenciado en Gastronomía por la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, México. Filiación institucional: Facultad de Turismo y Gastronomía, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México. Cargo:  Profesor de Tiempo Completo.

Elva Esther Vargas Martínez, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México

Doctora en Ciencias Ambientales, Maestra en Administración y Licenciada en Turismo por la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, México. Especialista en Estrategias Psicopedagógicas por la Universidad La Salle, Ciudad de México, México. Filiación institucional: Facultad de Turismo y Gastronomía, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México. Cargo:  Profesora de Tiempo Completo.

How to Cite
Martínez Rubio, K., Delgado Cruz, A., & Vargas Martínez, E. E. (2026). Frugal Innovation in a Business Context: A Bibliometric Review from 2011 to 2024. Revista Universidad Y Empresa, 28(52), 1–40. https://doi.org/10.12804/revistas.urosario.edu.co/empresa/a.15397
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