ZIJEn: Zabags International Journal of Engagement
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): Engagement

Strengthening Micro-Entrepreneur Capacity Through Community Economic Assistance Programs An Evaluation of Participatory Development Practices

Agus Setianto (Al-Mujaddid Sabak Islamic Institute, East Tanjung Jabung, Jambi, Indonesia)
Wargo (Al-Mujaddid Sabak Islamic Institute, East Tanjung Jabung, Jambi, Indonesia)
Wardani (Universitas Muhamadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Micro-enterprises play a strategic role in generating employment and improving community welfare, yet they continue to face limitations in managerial capacity, access to capital, technological adoption, and marketing networks. This study aims to analyze the implementation of community economic assistance programs in strengthening micro-entrepreneur capacity through participatory development practices, while evaluating their contribution to managerial, production, marketing, and business development aspects. Employing a qualitative evaluative-descriptive approach, data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing with triangulation verification. The findings reveal that active involvement of micro-entrepreneurs in planning, implementation, and evaluation stages enhances ownership, independence, and adaptability to economic challenges. Technical and managerial mentoring strengthens production capacity and resource management, while social capital expands business networks and digital technology integration supports market adaptation. The contribution of this study lies in developing a conceptual framework that integrates community empowerment, participatory development, capacity building, social capital, and micro-entrepreneurship theories. It also provides a practical evaluation model for policymakers, non-governmental organizations, and economic empowerment institutions to design more effective and sustainable assistance programs.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

zijen

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences Other

Description

ZIJEn (Zabags International Journal of Engagement) is a community service journal. The interdisciplinary goal of this "peer-review of Engagement" is in order to advance theory and practice related to all forms of dedication and involvement. This includes highlighting innovative endeavors; critically ...