Knowledge sharing in horticultural community-based enterprises: The determinants of indigenous knowledge sharing

Population aging and the migration of young people to urban regions have led to a decline in agricultural knowledge. Nevertheless, the community of practices serves as a social learning platform, enabling the informal exchange of experiences among farmers. This study aims to examine the factors that influence knowledge sharing (KS) in horticultural community-based enterprises situated in six regions of Thailand, considering the varying levels of participation in each community. A comprehensive dataset was obtained by selecting samples for mixed-approach analysis using stratified and snowball sampling techniques. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling and summative content analysis to validate hypotheses and engage in-depth data discussion. This study’s findings, from knowledge recipients’ perspectives, reveal that individual, social, and managerial aspects influence KS outcomes via the mediating factor of KS. Additionally, from the knowledge providers’ perspective, factors such as norms, rewards, organizational structure, and training do not affect KS. These findings indicate that the management essential for successful knowledge sharing in horticultural community-based enterprises must align with the roles of community actors with different attitudes and preferences.