EVALUATION OF GRASSROOTS INNOVATION IN SAUDI ARABIA: EVIDANCE FROM CAT ADOPTION EVENTS CASE STUDY

Abstract

Grassroots innovation is defined as a network of activists generating novel bottom-up solutions in response to perceived unjust social situations (Seyfang & Smith, 2007). The aim of this research was to evaluate the application of grassroots innovation principles in Saudi Arabia through a case study of cat adoption events. The objectives of this research were to (1) identify advantages and challenges to the adoption events (2) describe how volunteers drive change (3) identify the reasons volunteers get involved as a critical input to the innovation process. To address the research questions from different perspectives, the research employs a mixed data collection method in the form of interviews, survey questionnaires and document review. The total sample size was 37 participants. Findings indicated that the adoption events are culturally appropriate in treating the issue at hand due to its community embeddedness and contribution to volunteer skills. Challenges to innovation diffusion were volunteer burnout and key people leaving. To overcome these, the recommended course action is to develop an institutional infrastructure and acquire a set venue for the events. Researching the application of grassroots innovation principles in Saudi Arabia will aid in the development of appropriate analyses and better-decision making for industry practitioners and policymakers. Allowing for the development of compelling argument for investing in community-level endeavors.