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Traditional snack micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia face increasing market competition and rapidly changing consumer preferences, particularly among younger consumers seeking innovative and symbolic food experiences. This community engagement study aims to strengthen the profitability and sustainability of traditional snack MSMEs by integrating local flavor innovation with simple business governance practices. Using a participatory action research approach under the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program in Palangka Raya, this study involved co-creation between students and local entrepreneurs in product development, production standardization, and basic financial management. Qualitative data were collected through participatory observation and stakeholder discussions, while quantitative data were obtained from sales records and simple financial reports. The results demonstrate that local flavor-based innovation, combined with standardized operating procedures and cost control mechanisms, improved product differentiation, operational efficiency, and financial performance. The intervention generated a positive net profit and strengthened the partner’s capacity for independent business management. This study contributes to the literature by positioning traditional food MSMEs as sites of cultural innovation and micro-governance, while supporting Sustainable Development Goals related to inclusive economic growth, cultural preservation, and responsible production.

The objective of this mentoring activity is to increase the capacity of swimming pool managers, particularly in strengthening management and sustainable management strategies. With this increased capacity, it is hoped that Tirta Arum Swimming Pool can develop into a valuable village asset, both economically and socially. The swimming pool will not only provide a source of income for the village but also serve as a means of recreation, education, and social interaction for the surrounding community. The method used in this mentoring activity is Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), an approach that emphasizes active community participation in every stage of the planning process, decision-making, and program implementation. PRA enables village communities, including Tirta Arum Village-Owned Enterprise (BUMDes) managers, to analyze their environmental conditions, identify problems, and design contextual and sustainable solutions. This approach is implemented through structured mentoring, education, and training activities. Direct community involvement aims to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for swimming pool management. In addition, with training tailored to local needs, managers are expected to be able to apply effective management principles, from planning and financial management to customer service and promotional strategies. Thus, the results of this activity are not only temporary improvements, but also long-term empowerment that contributes to the independence and business aspirations of the Village-Owned Enterprise (BUMDes). Through the PRA method, this activity not only provides an immediate solution to swimming pool management problems but also increases the independence of the community and managers in developing and operating the business sustainably. This increased community participation is expected to foster a sense of ownership (a sense of belonging) towards the swimming pool as a shared property.