Tuesday, June 25, 2024, an important initiative was carried out to strengthen the economic independence of women in the Benteng Chinese community. This business planning training was held at the pendopo of the house of Mr. RW 01, Mr. Cuan Hoy. This activity was attended by 20 participants who were administrators and members of the Simple Women's Group (KWPS) Lampion Merah Abadi.
This training was guided by Mr. Iqbal Yusti Ekoputro from PPSW Jakarta. He started the training by introducing the basic concept of business planning or business plan. A minimum provision that must be owned by every individual who wants to run a business professionally.
This training is designed to broaden the insights of the Chinese Benteng women participants regarding the importance of having a clear vision in running a business. By understanding and planning every aspect of the business carefully, it is hoped that these women micro entrepreneurs can develop their businesses to be more strategic and competitive. In addition, this training also aims to ensure that participants can understand, create, and implement a solid business plan in their daily business activities.
At the beginning of the session, the facilitator asked the participants about their understanding of the terms “business” and “planning.” According to Iqbal, in the context of economics, business is all activities carried out by individuals or groups. With the main goal of obtaining business profits (business profit) through the provision of goods and/or services to the community.
Meanwhile, planning is a management function related to the selection of vision, mission, and goals, as well as strategies, policies, procedures, rules, programs, and budgets needed to run a business or enterprise.
The facilitator then invites participants to identify the vision and mission of their respective businesses. Vision is the future ideals of the company that will carry out the business. While the mission is a special or unique and fundamental purpose that distinguishes the company from others.
Examples of visions and missions produced by participants show a strong spirit and determination to succeed in their respective endeavors. Next, the facilitator introduces the concept Business Model Canvas, a tool that helps participants design and visualize their business models. In this model, there are eight important elements that must be considered. Namely, cooperation, activities carried out, superior value, customer relationships, communication channels, target markets, cost structures, and sources of income.
By understanding and implementing these elements, participants are expected to be able to develop their businesses more effectively and efficiently. For example, a group planning to run a cake business identifies their market segments that include children, teenagers, and adults. With business value in the form of unique and different flavors. They also design a cost structure that includes raw materials and operational costs. And formulate revenue streams obtained from direct marketing and sales take away.
Another group that focuses on tempeh chips production, identifies the resources they have such as themselves, family, and employees. And determines marketing strategies through direct sales, social media, and word of mouth. With realistic production cost calculations and revenue projections, they are optimistic that their business can grow and develop.
This business planning training not only provides practical knowledge. But also fosters the self-confidence of the Chinese micro-entrepreneurs of Benteng to dare to dream big and take real action. With a clear vision, mature planning, and the right strategy, they are expected to be able to face challenges in the business world and achieve the success they dream of.
More than just training, this activity is the first step for participants to build a strong foundation of economic independence. Not only for themselves, but also for their families and communities. By continuing to hone their skills and expand their networks, these women are ready to become drivers of change in their environment.
