Analysis of Empowerment of Small and Medium Enterprises Producing Products from Sago Raw Materials

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the empowerment strategies of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) producing sago-based products in Indonesia. The research focuses on identifying empowerment patterns, supporting and inhibiting factors, and evaluating the sustainability of empowerment programs. A qualitative descriptive approach was used with data collected through interviews, observation, and document analysis of several sago-processing SMEs in Maluku and Papua. The results show that empowerment initiatives include technical training, capital assistance, and digital marketing facilitation. However, challenges remain in production infrastructure, managerial capacity, and innovation. Collaborative synergy between local governments, academia, and private actors is crucial to strengthen competitiveness and expand sago-based product markets at national and ASEAN levels.