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Abstract. This study aims to examine the role of social innovation in accelerating community economic development through a participatory approach based on local potential. Social innovation is seen as an effective new solution to address various social and economic problems, particularly at the community level, by involving communities as key actors of change. This study highlights the importance of collaboration between communities, government, academia, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations in creating an inclusive and sustainable development ecosystem. The results indicate that social innovation can strengthen community economic independence, create alternative economic models such as digital cooperatives and community-based economies, and encourage broad participation in the development process. However, various obstacles remain, such as low digital literacy, limited access to funding, and weak policy support. Therefore, systemic interventions and more progressive policy support are needed to expand the impact of social innovation on sustainable community economic development.

This study aims to analyze the economic and social impacts within the environmental context on the sustainability of catfish farming in Basanah Village. Environmental issues such as water quality, land availability, and land-use changes have significantly affected aquaculture practices. Moreover, the social dynamics of the surrounding community, including patterns of cooperation, public perception of catfish farming, and economic impacts on farmers’ income and welfare, are central to the investigation. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach through field observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving local farmers, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders. The findings reveal that economic aspects, such as production cost efficiency and income improvement, are highly dependent on stable environmental conditions and strong social support. Conversely, environmental degradation and weak social participation hinder business development. Therefore, participatory-based policies integrating sustainable environmental management with the strengthening of local socioeconomic capacities are urgently needed. This study offers a significant contribution as a foundation for formulating empowerment strategies for environmentally and socially-based small-scale aquaculture enterprises at the village level.

KSPPS BMT Dana Mentari Purwokerto faces tight competition with other cooperatives such as PNM Mekar Sudagaran Sidareja in supporting MSMEs through sharia financing. This study analyzes the competitive position of BMT Dana Mentari using the Competitive Profile Matrix (CPM) and formulates a sharia-based business strategy. A descriptive qualitative approach is applied with data from interviews (May 2025), observations, and documents (OJK, 2025). The CPM results show that BMT Dana Mentari has a score of 3.25, superior to PNM Mekar (3.05), with strengths in sharia compliance and personal service. The main weakness is digital technology. The proposed strategies include digitalization of mobile applications (2026) and development of musyarakah products, in accordance with the itsar principle. This study provides guidance for sharia cooperatives to increase the competitiveness and empowerment of MSMEs.

This article discusses the role of the government and strategies for strengthening the people's economy in empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Purwokerto, particularly in the context of digitalization. MSMEs play a significant role in the local and national economy but face various challenges that affect their competitiveness. The Banyumas Regency government actively supports digital transformation through training and programs that enhance the digital skills of MSME actors. Additionally, financial literacy is also deemed crucial to help MSME actors manage finances and understand essential business aspects. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the conditions of MSMEs in Purwokerto and the steps that can be taken to enhance their role in the local economy.