<![CDATA[This research is motivated by the high poverty rate in Padang Pariaman Regency, which reached 26.93 thousand people in 2023. Zakat, as a sharia financial instrument, has significant potential in empowering the mustahik (zakat recipient) economy. One of the initiatives run by BAZNAS Padang Pariaman Regency is the Z-Mart program, which aims to improve the welfare of mustahik through micro business development. However, the implementation of this program still experiences various challenges, such as less intensive assistance, limited mustahik financial management skills, and unstrategic business locations. Based on this, this study examines two main issues, namely the role of Z-Mart in improving the welfare of mustahiks and the application of empowerment principles in managing the program. The purpose of this study is to analyze the contribution of Z-Mart in improving the welfare of mustahik in Padang Pariaman Regency and evaluate the implementation of empowerment principles in this program. The research method used is qualitative with a descriptive approach. Data collection was conducted through interviews with mustahik and program assistants, field observations, and documentation studies from BAZNAS Padang Pariaman Regency. Data analysis followed the Miles and Huberman model, including data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that Z-Mart plays a positive role in improving the welfare of mustahiks, among others through increased income, improved family health conditions, and the ability to save. However, the program still faces obstacles such as the lack of sustainable mentoring, the low managerial capacity of mustahiks, and less profitable business locations. Although empowerment principles such as equality, participation, independence, and sustainability have been implemented, further strengthening is needed so that the program can run optimally and sustainably. ]]>
