To What Extent Does Small Business Development Strengthen the Halal Ecosystem at the Ad-Dinul Qayyim Islamic Boarding School?

Abstract

This study explores the extent of the effectiveness of economic empowerment at the Ad-Dinul Qayyim Kapek Gunung Sari Islamic boarding school through a small business development program in supporting the halal ecosystem. It focuses on the management of the boarding school canteen business unit as a provider of food for students, a means of learning entrepreneurship, a strengthening of the economic independence of the boarding school, and a contribution to the welfare of the surrounding community. This study utilized a qualitative approach with a case study method through interviews, observation, and documentation techniques. The data was processed and presented in various forms and assessed based on arguments supported by several theories for verification and justification. The results of the study indicate that the economic empowerment of Islamic boarding schools through canteen businesses is quite effective with the support of boarding school management, active participation of students, and involvement of the surrounding community in the form of consignment products. In addition, boarding schools also collaborate with teachers and local health institutions in business assistance so that the values of halal, hygiene, and responsibility are maintained. Furthermore, the researchers also identified a number of challenges, such as limited capital, insufficient knowledge about halal standards and hygiene, limited production capacity, and consumer behavior that delays payments. To see the novelty of this research, refer to the effectiveness of small business development specifically for building a halal ecosystem in Islamic boarding schools.