In an interview with Cmas, Núñez provided a clear outlook on the current situation in Chile, the factors that triggered it, and what the solution might be for overcoming the social crisis that has left entrepreneurs in the country facing uncertainty.

The expert explains that while one group has been more visible in the media, another group is suffering the consequences of the social unrest. “Although the most noticeable aspect is the number of businesses affected by vandalism—which is significant—it is not the most widespread issue. The real challenge is the loss of sales capacity. We’ve seen businesses lose between 20%—which is the average—and, in more dramatic cases, some are now selling only 15% of what they previously did. I would say that the commerce and tourism sectors are among the most affected by what is happening.”

Innovators Will Prevail

According to Núñez, entrepreneurs must embrace reinvention to move forward. “Those who will have the best opportunities in this changing landscape are those who know how to innovate because innovation is about adapting to the new. In times of change, those who can read the signs of transformation will do best. The tide is shifting—what used to work no longer does. The key is to be flexible, understand how this change is unfolding, and adapt as quickly as possible while staying closely connected to the new reality.”

He also highlights the urgency of ending social unrest. “What concerns me most about this period is the constant violence. Markets cannot thrive in an environment of uncertainty and fluctuating messages that undermine confidence and destroy capital. On the one hand, a crisis creates opportunity, but on the other, we must put an end to violence. Destroying capital reduces opportunities and ultimately halts investment,” explains Núñez.

He believes that the unrest is a result of prolonged stagnation. “A fresh perspective is necessary to overcome this crisis. I would argue that this situation arose because we haven’t changed the way we do things since the 1990s. Adapting to a new way of working could create much greater value for society. If we fail to innovate and modernize our approach to align with the 21st century, we’ll remain trapped in a paradigm that has already collapsed. This crisis has made it clear that everything was not fine, and we needed to do something different. It’s an opportunity—an opportunity that must be seized through innovation.”

The Current Role of Compite

In an interview last September, Núñez mentioned that Compite was undergoing a restructuring, a process that accelerated following the social unrest. “We see this as an opportunity because we want to support many more businesses in achieving success. SMEs have been significantly affected by recent events, and Compite aims to help them navigate this crisis. The way businesses operate and create value is being redefined, and we want to be part of that transformation.”

One of their key initiatives involves gathering data on the needs of SMEs and assisting them in developing their plans. Additionally, they have launched a special program in partnership with a bank to support 100 companies in adjusting their business models and finding the best way forward. “We are also generating information. We are analyzing data to create reports and recommendations, providing businesses with practical tips to help them adapt to these changes and avoid a deeper crisis,” adds Núñez.

Looking ahead, Núñez shared Compite’s expansion plans. In addition to maintaining operations in Puerto Montt, Concepción, Viña del Mar, and Santiago, they plan to open a new office in La Serena next year and expand into other cities between the Metropolitan Region and Biobío. They are also setting their sights abroad. “We are considering international expansion and expect to establish a presence in Colombia or Peru by 2021,” concludes the president of Compite.