Background: Community-based innovation models are increasingly recognized as pivotal mechanisms for preserving cultural identity while promoting inclusive socioeconomic development. Despite global interest, a comprehensive empirical framework remains elusive.
Objective: This study investigates the effectiveness of participatory innovation models in fostering sustainable cultural development across diverse community contexts.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining structured surveys (n=620), in-depth interviews (n=48), and longitudinal indicator tracking across five community cohorts in four countries over a 36-month period (2021–2024).
Results: Community participation rates increased from 42.3% to 74.6%. Cultural sustainability scores rose by an average of 53.7%. Indigenous co-creation models demonstrated the highest cultural preservation outcomes (9.1/10), while social enterprise models excelled in economic viability.
Conclusion: Community-driven participatory models significantly improve cultural sustainability outcomes. Policy integration, digital enablement, and adaptive governance are critical for scalable and resilient cultural development.