<![CDATA[IntroductionThe expansion of the halal economy has increased the importance of halal certification for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. Although halal certification enhances product credibility and competitiveness, many MSMEs continue to experience difficulties in obtaining certification and accessing Islamic financing. Existing studies have largely examined halal certification, Islamic financing, and cultural factors separately, leaving limited understanding of how these dimensions interact within a unified halal ecosystem.ObjectivesThis study aims to explore the role of local culture in supporting halal certification implementation and facilitating MSME access to Islamic financing. Specifically, it examines how cultural values, social capital, community trust, and religious networks influence certification adoption, financing accessibility, and business performance.MethodThis study employed a qualitative case study approach in Wonosobo, Central Java, Indonesia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and document analysis involving MSME owners, representatives of Islamic financial institutions, halal certification facilitators, religious leaders, and community figures. Data were analyzed using the interactive model of data condensation, data display, and conclusion verification. Triangulation and member-checking procedures were applied to enhance credibility and trustworthiness.ResultsThe findings indicate that local culture functions as a source of social capital that encourages halal certification adoption and strengthens trust in Islamic financial institutions. Approximately 78% of MSMEs perceived halal certification as part of their religious and cultural values, while 82% of MSMEs active in religious communities had obtained or were pursuing certification. Halal-certified MSMEs experienced stronger market credibility, with 71% reporting increased sales and an average turnover growth of 25%. Furthermore, 55% of MSMEs reported easier access to Islamic financing after certification, and 87% of Islamic financial institutions expressed greater confidence in financing halal-certified enterprises. However, 29% of certified MSMEs continued to face financing constraints due to limited financial literacy and administrative capacity. ImplicationsThe results highlight the importance of integrating cultural resources, halal certification programs, and Islamic financing initiatives in strengthening MSME development. Collaborative efforts involving certification authorities, Islamic financial institutions, local governments, and community organizations are necessary to improve halal literacy, financial inclusion, and the effectiveness of the halal economic ecosystem. Originality/NoveltyThis study contributes to the literature by proposing an integrative framework that positions culture as a mediating mechanism linking social capital, halal certification, institutional legitimacy, and access to Islamic financing. The study extends existing research by demonstrating how culturally embedded trust and community networks facilitate both certification adoption and financial inclusion among MSMEs.]]>
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