Knowledge Enhancement in the Small Economies of Central America: Reflections on Building a Strategic Approach

This document advocates better mechanisms for ongoing learning and better access to knowledge in small economies. Its objective is to raise awareness about two issues related to science and technology projects that are relevant for the small economies of Central America, namely that: (1) there are insufficient knowledge-based innovations to support rapid economic growth; and (2) the size of the investments in technologies appropriate for the poor are too meager to be effective in enhancing the opportunities and capabilities available to disadvantaged groups. The paper takes the position that understanding these issues will allow greater emphases in certain aspects of science and technology project design. Moreover, greater attention to these issues contribute to the institutional objectives of the Bank such as competitiveness and poverty reduction.