STRATEGI PENGEMBANGAN UMKM OLEH DINAS KOPERASI, UKM, TENAGA KERJA DAN TRANSMIGRASI KABUPATEN JEPARA

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the development strategy of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) implemented by the Department of Cooperatives, MSMEs, Manpower, and Transmigration of Jepara Regency. The main focus of this research is on the food and beverage processing sector, which dominates the local economy but still faces structural and managerial challenges in its development. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach, with data collected through in-depth interviews with five MSME actors, three structural officials from the department, and one representative from a local MSME association. The findings show that the development strategies implemented by the Department of Cooperatives, MSMEs, Manpower, and Transmigration have not been fully optimal and are not yet well integrated with the actual needs on the ground. The situation diagnosis reveals that the growth of MSMEs in Jepara remains quantitative, lacking parallel improvement in human resource capacity, market access, and institutional support systems. The guiding policies remain general and are not based on micro-level data reflecting the specific characteristics of each MSME sector. Meanwhile, the actions taken have yet to establish a sustainable empowerment pattern. This study concludes that a reformulation of MSME development strategies is needed through a more integrative and locally responsive approach. Stronger cross-sectoral collaboration, field based needs assessment, and consistent evaluation systems are essential to ensure the sustainability and long-term impact of empowerment programs.