Empowering Community Knowledge: A Qualitative Examination of Knowledge Mobilization Barriers Involving Community-Based Organizations

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of community-based organizations (CBOs) to enhance knowledge mobilization (KMb) through reciprocal and empowering collaborations with academic researchers. Using a constructivist qualitative methodology, the research explored how CBOs perceive and experience KMb relationships and identified challenges in fostering mutually beneficial KMb relationships. Data were gathered via semi-structured interviews with 11 participants from nine Montréal-based CBOs. Findings indicate that CBOs distinguish between direct service beneficiaries and academic collaborators, often prioritizing immediate community needs over KMb objectives. They face resource deficits, siloed practices, and complex decision-making; participants also noted a lack of recognition and ownership of contributions that are frequently undocumented and undervalued. The study advocates a more inclusive, reciprocal KMb framework that fully recognizes CBOs’ local knowledge.