SBM ITB has relaunched its Societal Impact program, focusing on village communities with high economic potential, particularly those along the Citarum River Basin (DAS). The initiative, set to begin on February 5, 2025, will empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and village-owned enterprises (Bumdes). The program’s launch will be marked by a formal commitment signing between SBM ITB and key external stakeholders, including village officials, Bumdes directors, financial institutions, research organizations, corporate partners, and NGOs.
Yunieta Anny Nainggolan, leader of the SBM ITB Societal Impact Team, stated that the program’s primary goal is to empower underdeveloped communities with significant economic potential. Initially launched in 2021, the initiative applies SBM ITB’s expertise in socio-economic development, particularly in strengthening MSMEs. Villages in the Citarum River Basin were selected due to the region’s ongoing challenges despite its considerable growth opportunities.
“The social challenges we aim to address align closely with SBM ITB’s core competencies. We apply entrepreneurial leadership to solve real-world problems,” Yunieta said in Bandung on January (30/1).
The program promotes direct engagement with local stakeholders, including village heads, Bumdes, and corporate partners such as PLN Nusantara Power, which has pledged its support through the Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) initiative. SBM ITB lecturers and students will also collaborate with local communities to develop and implement impactful solutions.
The Societal Impact Team has set clear benchmarks to measure the program’s effectiveness. The goal is for 70% of participating entrepreneurs to sustain their businesses in the long term, with at least 50% experiencing growth in sales. These metrics will be continuously monitored and evaluated to ensure ongoing improvement and alignment with the program’s objectives.
As the program evolves, stakeholder feedback will be incorporated to address emerging community needs better. By 2045, SBM ITB aims to positively impact at least 20 communities, equipping local entrepreneurs with the tools to succeed in an increasingly complex market.
“Let’s accelerate social impact and sustainable community development through collaboration,” Yunieta urged.