Management of knowledge and local ecosystems of innovation in the honduran dairy sector

Abstract

An innovation ecosystem is defined as an interconnected network of actors, including organizations, customers, suppliers and regulators, that work together to create value and face both collaboration and competition. At the local level, these ecosystems can drive economic development and foster an entrepreneurial culture in specific productive sectors, such as the dairy sector in Honduras. This sector, which contributes significantly to the national economy and generates numerous jobs, faces challenges in areas such as production, quality, safety and innovation, mainly due to traditional practices and limited technology. This paper argues that the implementation of local innovation ecosystems, where universities play a leading role, can transform the dairy sector through research, development and innovation. Public-private collaboration and the role of universities are fundamental to the success of these ecosystems, as they generate knowledge, train specialized talent and promote technology transfer. In addition, universities act as research and development centers in alliance with companies and governments, fostering economic growth and competitiveness. Cooperation among actors facilitates the exchange of knowledge and the adoption of advanced practices, while the integration of scientific, technological and innovative strategies, together with continuous training programs, optimize production processes and improve the quality and safety of dairy products. To overcome the challenges facing the Honduran dairy sector, it is essential to establish ongoing training programs, develop open innovation platforms and design effective systems for monitoring and evaluating R&D and innovation projects. Successful experiences support these initiatives, which allow better adaptation to market demands and contribute to improving the quality of life of producers in the sector.