Regularities of innovation management in agricultural cooperatives of Artemisa, Cuba

Abstract

Innovation management has been addressed by various authors, who refer to its evolution toward different approaches, viewing it as a systematic process in which new ideas are generated and transformed into new products, services, processes, or models that create added value and competitive advantages. The challenges facing the Cuban agricultural sector are diverse; shortages of technological equipment and other resources limit development and prevent the sector from achieving a satisfactory level of food sovereignty. This research diagnoses the current state of innovation management in agricultural cooperatives in the province of Artemisa to identify their potential, limitations, and barriers, thereby guiding efforts to improve them. Theoretical methods (analysis and synthesis, induction-deduction) and empirical methods (surveys, semi-structured interviews, and literature review) were employed. As a result of the literature review, eleven models and tools were identified, grouped into four approaches, none of which integrates cooperative governance with the internal management of innovation. The empirical results reveal occasional, process-centered innovation, supported by peer learning and leading producers, but limited by a lack of resources, funding, training, and coordination with actors in the agricultural knowledge and innovation system, as well as by cultural barriers such as low motivation and the individual appropriation of ideas. The findings are discussed in light of recent studies, contributing to the refinement of innovation management within the cooperative context of Artemisa.