Empowering MSEs in the Bantar Gebang waste-affected community through digital and financial capacity building

Abstract

This community service activity aimed to strengthen the capacity of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Bantar Gebang through training on branding, business digitalization, and financial literacy. The program was conducted on 29 April 2026 at the Ciketing Udik Village Office, involving 41 MSE actors and local stakeholders. A participatory approach was employed through three stages: problem identification, program development, and implementation. Initial findings revealed several challenges faced by participants, including limited digital adoption, weak branding practices, and inadequate financial management. Only 5 out of 41 participants (12.2%) had utilized digital platforms, mainly TikTok and Instagram, while most participants still relied on conventional marketing approaches, used personal WhatsApp accounts instead of WhatsApp Business, had not registered their businesses on Google Maps, and had not implemented basic bookkeeping practices. The training activities facilitated knowledge transfer and capacity strengthening by introducing digital business platforms, branding strategies, bookkeeping practices, and alternative financing options. Following the program, participants expressed interest in adopting WhatsApp Business, registering their businesses on digital platforms, improving product identity and packaging, and participating in follow-up training on digital content creation. These findings indicate the importance of continuous mentoring to support sustainable SME empowerment and business development.