Knowledge flows for rural producers: evidence from the Medellín ecosystem, Colombia

This study aims to analyze how knowledge flows occur between rural producers and the ecosystem of Medellín. Based on the case study method, 26 interviews were carried out, encompassing 10 rural producers and 16 actors of the ecosystem of Medellín, besides the documental analysis and direct observation, to complement the triangulation of the evidence sources. In the results, it was possible to map knowledge flows, identifying the actors of the ecosystem that interact with the rural producers of low technological incorporation. The University of Antioquia stands out with projects that involve producers in defining the demands to be met, but these are individualized actions on the part of the university, requiring greater integration of the other players in the ecosystem. The present study contributes with knowledge regarding a flow model to be replicated, in which a framework can be structured, to be investigated in other ecosystems, as well as its interactions with productive chains.