In a significant initiative to upgrade the digital entrepreneurship skills of micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (UMKM) and small-scale industries (IKM), 450 entrepreneurs from Batam participated in a specialized training program. Held on October 30, 2023, at Hotel Harmoni One, this event marks a crucial step in supporting local businesses to adapt and thrive in the digital era.
Boosting Digital Skills among Batam’s Entrepreneurs
The Department of Industry and Trade (Disperindag) of Batam, collaborating with the National Crafts Council of Batam City (Dekranasda), organized this training. The program aims to address the challenges local entrepreneurs face in leveraging digital platforms for business growth.
Expert Insights and University Collaboration
Gustian Riau, the Head of Disperindag Batam, highlighted the engagement of experts from various universities. These specialists provided valuable insights and guidance, helping entrepreneurs to better navigate and exploit digital avenues for business enhancement.
Financial Support and Partnership with Banks
In addition to training, the government collaborated with Bank BSI and BRI to offer collateral-free loans up to IDR 100 million under the Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) scheme, ensuring participants have the necessary funds to apply their new skills practically.
Increasing UMKM and IKM Numbers
The latest data from Disperindag indicates a rise in the number of UMKM and IKM operators in Batam — from 1,816 in the previous year to 1,900 currently, reflecting a growing entrepreneurial spirit within the city.
Focus on Market Expansion and Skills Application
Muhammad Rudi, Mayor of Batam, stressed the need for continual skill development beyond IT, including how to effectively market products to wider audiences. This focus is essential for translating training into tangible business outcomes.
Vision for Future Entrepreneurial Growth
The initiative envisions not just current business growth but also future sustainability by empowering entrepreneurs with the knowledge to scale up their operations and create quality employment opportunities.
This initiative signals Batam’s commitment to nurturing a digitally savvy, entrepreneurial community. For Singaporeans and international visitors, this could mean access to a wider array of innovative, locally crafted products and services, enhanced by digital proficiency and more efficient marketing. The enhanced business environment in Batam presents new investment and partnership opportunities.
In an effort to integrate digital capabilities in small and medium enterprises, Batam’s Disperindag hosted a major training event for 450 UMKM and IKM operators. Through expert guidance, financial support, and an emphasis on practical skills application, the initiative promises a robust boost to the local economy and presents new opportunities for both local and international stakeholders.
Source : Go Kepri, Tribun News (2023)
