Reframing Cultural Heritage Digitization: Co-Creation, Inclusion, and the Quadruple Helix Approach

This paper addresses the fragmented dynamics of stakeholder engagement in cultural heritage digitisation, particularly where minority and Indigenous representation is concerned. Drawing on co-creation theory, innovation ecosystems, and the Quadruple Helix framework, it introduces a model that treats engagement as an evolving process across civil society, academia, government, and industry—while recognising communities as autonomous knowledge actors. The model was tested through an analysis of 40 digitisation projects across Canada, Australia, the USA, and Croatia, selected for their focus on cultural self-representation, oral traditions, and community-led preservation. Findings highlight the significance of shared governance and sustained community leadership in embedding co-creation across decision-making and stewardship. The paper argues that genuine engagement requires a redistribution of power and epistemic authority, not just inclusion. The conclusion outlines implications for digital heritage policy, especially regarding data sovereignty and culturally appropriate infrastructure. Ongoing research will explore how the model can be applied across diverse contexts.