The Multilevel Knowledge Economy Pyramid Model as a Flexible Solution to Address the Impact of Adverse Events in the Economy

Abstract

The complexity of the current crisis is a big challenge for sustainable development, in the context of several overlapping shocks generated by the Coronavirus disease, geostrategic conflict, energy breaches, and food security threats. An appropriate answer to address these issues is to create a new approach to sustainable growth based on the knowledge economy. At this point, related studies have referring to the knowledge triangle, the triple (quintuple) helix, smart specialization, and the knowledge-based economy. In this research, compared with other studies in the field, knowledge structures created on the foundation of the knowledge economy were designed to work together to generate synergy in a knowledge environment where the stakeholders are universities, technology providers, governments, local communities, and entrepreneurs. In this mechanism, innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship are the premises for increasing productivity and competitiveness, with a positive impact on smart growth and the standard of living.