The Dynamics behind the Likelihood of Adopting Inclusive Agrarian Innovations in Disadvantaged Central American Communities

Rafael A Araque-Padilla,Maria Jose Montero-Simo

doi:10.3390/agriculture12010085

Abstract

Although innovation studies form a consolidated field in developed countries, the same is not true in disadvantaged countries especially in agriculture, despite the importance of innovation in generating wealth and inclusiveness. With this study, we aim to contribute to the knowledge of the processes of adopting innovation in agrarian contexts of poverty. Thus, we examined the main factors that influence the probability of accepting a new product, and their interrelationships in a Central American community. Based on a qualitative methodology, we held 42 in-depth interviews with small-scale producers. All the information collected was the subject of a discursive and content analysis, with support from the NVivo 12 software programme. The results show how key factors such as culture, the market, networks, attitudes, expectations, and social references are interrelated and enhanced or hindered by other social dynamics. These findings underline the idea that the entrepreneur’s relationship with innovation is a dynamic reality where the probability of acceptance is the outcome of combining cultural, individual, institutional, and organisational factors. Any innovation support policy that arises in these contexts should be based on more systemic approaches if the acceptance of inclusive innovation is to be improved.

Highlights

While innovation studies constitute a consolidated field in the developed world, disadvantaged countries have not received the same attention [1]
With a willingness to take risks within their means, they showed a great openness to new ideas, receptivity, and a tendency to experiment by learning from their mistakes or failures
The findings offer us an overview of what may be happening in the agricultural sector of Honduras and, by extension of cultural similarity, in other Central American countries

Summary

Introduction

While innovation studies constitute a consolidated field in the developed world, disadvantaged countries have not received the same attention [1] In these cases, innovation issues have not been on the agenda of most researchers and policymakers. More focused on the challenges of meeting basic needs, innovation has been seen more as an end than as a means to development It has an important role in reducing poverty and generating social inclusion [2]. In the context of poverty, innovation problems take on a characteristic physiognomy that needs to be addressed and on which more light must be shed Obstacles such as fewer companies and worker mobility or weak interactions and cooperation between the private and public sectors can hinder the dissemination of innovation. Foster and Heeks [5] noted that sustainable innovation must include industries of particular importance to marginalised populations, such as health, education, and small-scale agriculture

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion