Empowering Ulva Seaweed MSMEs
24 – 25 June 2024, Gunung Kidul, Special Region of Yogyakarta
On June 24-25, our founder Maria Gigih Setiarti and Winner Perkasa Indonesia Unggul, with the sponsorship of UNIDO, embarked on a significant initiative to support Ulva seaweed chip MSMEs in Gunung Kidul. This capacity-building program was designed to benefit 50 MSMEs, 40 of which are women entrepreneurs who have been dedicated for over five years but have not previously received any support from the local government.
Maria emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that these MSMEs possess a wealth of experience and productivity yet have faced challenges due to a lack of formal support and resources. “Our goal is to empower these MSMEs by enhancing their skills and providing them with the necessary tools to improve their products and expand their market reach,” she stated.
MSMEs received training to refine the quality of their Ulva seaweed chips, ensuring they meet higher standards and appeal to a broader customer base. This included guidance on selecting the best raw materials and implementing quality control measures.
The program introduced MSMEs to advanced packaging techniques. This involved transitioning from traditional methods, such as using staples, to modern packaging presses, providing them with digital scales, and supplying them with packaging plastics and silica gel to absorb leftover cooking oil, previously they’re using pieces of cardboard.
This training was facilitated by experts from the Cooperatives and SMEs Agency, Health Department, and Halal Label Advisors. To help MSMEs legally market their products, the program included sessions on obtaining necessary distribution permits. This step is crucial for expanding their business beyond local markets and ensuring compliance with regulations.
The initiative began with a thorough data collection process across seven beaches in Gunung Kidul to identify MSMEs who had not previously received any assistance. This ensured that the program targeted those most in need of support.
The program’s launch event was a collaborative effort, attended by several distinguished guests. Mrs. Artati from the Business Analysis and Competitiveness Division of KKP, Mrs. Aniq from UNIDO, representatives from the Yogyakarta Provincial Fisheries Department, academia, sub-district and village officials, and local authorities all graced the occasion with their presence. Their participation highlighted the program’s significance and reinforced the collective commitment to empowering local MSMEs.
By providing essential resources, training, and support, we are helping to unlock the full potential of Ulva seaweed MSMEs. This initiative not only enhances their livelihoods but also contributes to the broader development of Gunung Kidul’s coastal communities.