This paper describes the Mexican economic environment in terms of general economic conditions from the 1940s to the present, the role of science and technology in industrial progress, and the promotion and support of small companies. The technical entrepreneur is identified as the missing link that would play an important part in the technological and industrial progress of developing countries. The background and motivations of such entrepreneurs are discussed, and restraints on entrepreneurship such as financing and location are considered. The entrepreneurial environment, particularly the relationships between entrepreneurship and development, culture, and values are also discussed. INFOTEC--a Mexican government-owned institute providing various services to industry--is described, its role as a catalyst for the entrepreneurial process is analyzed, and five areas of INFOTEC activities are listed: (1) provision of technological information; (2) identification of potential sellers of technology; (3) assistance to entrepreneurs in identifying needs and business opportunities; (4) identification of potential users for available technology; and (5) providing the essential meeting grounds and brokerage between sellers and buyers. The bibliography lists 16 references. (MES)