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From Technological Innovation to Social Innovation: The Role of Moroccan Women's Cooperatives in the Transition Towards Sustainable and Inclusive Territorial Development

Author

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  • Layla BOULKHIR

    (Multidisciplinary Research Laboratory in Economics and Management (LARPEG), Sultan Moulay Slimane University - Beni Mellal, Morocco.)

  • Asmae ATITAOU

    (Research Laboratory in Social and Solidarity Economy, Governance, and Development (LARESSGD), FSJES, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco.)

  • Amina BOUBRIK

    (Research Laboratory in Social and Solidarity Economy, Governance, and Development (LARESSGD), FSJES, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco.)

  • Fatima TOUHAMI

    (Multidisciplinary Research Laboratory in Economics and Management (LARPEG), Sultan Moulay Slimane University - Beni Mellal, Morocco.)

Abstract

This study investigates the role of Moroccan women's cooperatives in fostering sustainable and inclusive territorial development through the integration of social and technological innovations. Focusing on the Marrakech-Safi region, the research employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 24 women-led cooperatives engaged in sectors such as handicrafts, agriculture, argan oil processing, and medicinal plant production. The primary objective is to explore how these cooperatives leverage innovative practices to enhance job creation, preserve local know-how, promote environmental sustainability, and empower women. Preliminary findings reveal that these cooperatives significantly contribute to sustainable territorial development by harmonizing economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental conservation. However, persistent financial and technical constraints hinder their full potential. The study concludes with strategic recommendations aimed at enhancing the capacity and impact of women’s cooperatives, thereby supporting their role in achieving sustainable and inclusive local development. This research contributes to the broader discourse on social and technological innovation by highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women led initiatives in developing contexts.

Suggested Citation

  • Layla BOULKHIR & Asmae ATITAOU & Amina BOUBRIK & Fatima TOUHAMI, 2025. "From Technological Innovation to Social Innovation: The Role of Moroccan Women's Cooperatives in the Transition Towards Sustainable and Inclusive Territorial Development," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(2), pages 3143-3155, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-2:p:3143-3155
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Gerard George & Anita M. McGahan & Jaideep Prabhu, 2012. "Innovation for Inclusive Growth: Towards a Theoretical Framework and a Research Agenda," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 49(4), pages 661-683, June.
    3. United Nations UN, 2015. "Transforming our World: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," Working Papers id:7559, eSocialSciences.
    4. Romer, Paul M, 1990. "Endogenous Technological Change," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 98(5), pages 71-102, October.
    5. Schot, Johan & Steinmueller, W. Edward, 2018. "Three frames for innovation policy: R&D, systems of innovation and transformative change," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 47(9), pages 1554-1567.
    6. Selwyn W. Becker & Thomas L. Whisler, 1967. "The Innovative Organization: A Selective View of Current Theory and Research," The Journal of Business, University of Chicago Press, vol. 40, pages 462-462.
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