International Research Collaboration

Leeds University Business School partners with IFM at Tecnológico de Monterrey to strengthen research in family entrepreneurship across Latin America

Strengthening Global Research Ties: Leeds University Business School and IFEM at Tecnológico de Monterrey

Leeds University Business School is pleased to announce a new international research collaboration with the Institute for Enterprising Families for Mexico and Latin America (IFEM) at Tecnológico de Monterrey. Tecnológico de Monterrey is Mexico’s top-ranked university and a leader in Latin American higher education. 

This partnership, led by Dr Mariana Estrada-Robles and Dr Alex Kevill from the Management and Organisations Department, has been made possible through generous support from the University of Leeds International Research Collaboration Fund. The funding has enabled the development of a strategic academic relationship with IFEM, laying the groundwork for long-term collaboration in the field of family entrepreneurship.

Empowering Researchers Across Latin America

A first milestone in this collaboration was the delivery of a capacity-building workshop in May 2025 at IFEM’s Monterrey campus. The workshop, delivered by Dr Estrada-Robles and Dr Kevill, focused on innovative qualitative research methodologies and strategies for publishing in European academic journals. Drawing on Dr Estrada-Robles’ and Dr Kevill’s understanding of using innovative qualitative research methods, and their experience as authors, reviewers, and editors, the session provided practical insights into navigating the publication process and enhancing research visibility and impact.

 

The hybrid workshop was attended not only by academic staff and postgraduate researchers from IFEM but also by participants from across Latin America, including Colombia and Peru. This regional engagement highlights the broader impact of the collaboration, extending beyond Mexico to support the development of research capacity across Latin America.

Feedback from attendees underscored the value of the workshop in demystifying the publication process and introducing new methodological approaches. It also fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas, strengthening academic networks across borders and disciplines.

New International Affiliations

As part of this growing partnership, Dr Estrada-Robles and Dr Kevill have been formally welcomed as affiliated international researchers at IFEM. This affiliation reflects their commitment to advancing research in family entrepreneurship and their role in fostering cross-cultural academic exchange.

Looking Ahead

This collaboration is just the beginning. With plans for joint publications, case study development, and further workshops and seminars, the partnership between Leeds University Business School and IFEM is poised to deliver meaningful academic and practical impact. It also aligns with our School’s commitment to internationalisation, decolonising research, and supporting inclusive, globally relevant scholarship.

You can learn more about IFEM and its mission to support entrepreneurial families across Latin America on their official website here: IFEM Institute of Enterprising Families of Mexico and LATAM | Tecnológico de Monterrey