The Role Of Mıcromentor Indonesıa In Acceleratıng The Economıc Behavıor Of Mıcro-Enterprıse Actors In Cıtalem Vıllage, West Bandung Regency

Abstract

This study examines the role of MicroMentor Indonesia's Garda Transfumi program on the economic behavior of micro enterprises in Citalem Village, West Bandung Regency. Drawing on data from the ASEAN Investment Report (September 2022), which highlights the prevalence of micro enterprises in Indonesia, this research identifies the challenges they face, including capital, marketing, and formalization. The Garda Transfumi program, initiated by the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs and Mercy Corps Indonesia, employs a community empowerment approach to address these challenges by recruiting volunteer mentors to assist micro entrepreneurs in navigating business legalization and enhancing their operational capacity. Utilizing a qualitative and descriptive research methodology, the study delves into the roles of mentors in community care, organization, development, education, and action. The findings reveal that the mentors play crucial roles in skill development, practical application, and fostering a non-directive, empowering relationship with the community. The research highlights the program's implementation across fifteen Indonesian regions and emphasizes the importance of local volunteer recruitment for fostering trust and kinship within communities. Furthermore, the study outlines the Garda Transfumi program's strategies, including volunteer management, social media outreach, e-learning, webinars, and financial support to facilitate community and economic development. Despite challenges such as uneven recognition and support within local government structures, the program has shown significant success in improving the economic behavior of micro enterprises through formalization and capacity building. The research concludes that MicroMentor Indonesia's approach is effective in enhancing the economic resilience of micro enterprises. By providing comprehensive mentoring, training, and financial support, the program not only aids in the immediate growth of micro enterprises but also contributes to a more sustainable community development model. This initiative presents a replicable model for similar programs aiming to empower micro enterprises within Indonesia and potentially in other ASEAN regions.

Keywords

• MicroMentor Indonesia; Garda Transfumi; Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise; Micro Enterprise Empowerment; Community Development.