Journal of Educational Studies
Vol. 4 No. 2 (2026): July

Innovating Sustainable Business Models: A Comparative Study of Indonesian Universities

Nurlia Fusfita (UIN Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin)
Marissa Putriana (UIN Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin)
Jamaluddin (UIN Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin)
Yetti Anita Sari (UIN Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin)
Nurlaila Adhani (Institut Teknologi Perusahaan Listrik Negara)
Fadhl Mohammed Awadh Gharamah (Lahej University)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study aims to analyze and compare the dominant patterns of sustainable business model innovation in Legal Entity State Universities (PTNBH) and State Islamic Universities (UIN) in Indonesia. Using a qualitative comparative case study approach, this research analyzed public data from 12 PTNBH and 10 UIN, comprising annual reports, financial reports, and strategic documents, using MAXQDA 2022 software for systematic thematic analysis, incorporating open and axial coding stages, and validated through data triangulation. The findings reveal a significant dichotomy. PTNBH primarily developed Intellectual and Physical Asset Corporatization patterns, manifested through technology spin-offs, applied consulting, and commercial property development. This pattern reflects market logic and corporate efficiency, aiming to generate scalable non-tax revenue. Conversely, UIN frequently implemented Sharia-Based Socio-Economic Ecosystem Empowerment patterns, focusing on the development of Baitul Maal wat Tamwil (BMT), sharia cooperatives, community halal businesses, and religious consultancy services. This pattern is rooted in community logic and Islamic values, where economic activities serve as instruments for da’wah and community resilience. The study concludes that business model innovation patterns are determined by institutional fit with the logic, identity, and specific resources of each institution. Impliedly, no single universal business model is superior. The research recommends that policies supporting the financial independence of higher education institutions should respect these diverse pathways rather than applying a uniform approach.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JEs

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences Other

Description

Journal of Educational Studies Journal constitutes a triannual publication which publishes scholarly journals every April, August, and December in a year. It particularly publishes research articles examining issues related to the field of Education, Sciences, Social, Early Childhood Education, ...