The Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Brawijaya (FEB UB) shows its commitment to community empowerment through the “Mitra Mengabdi” or Partner Service program to help MSME actors in Blitar City in utilizing digital platforms as effective promotional media. The activity, which took place in the Hall of the Blitar City Library and Archives Service, carried the theme “Optimizing Marketing of Blitar City MSME Products with the SOSTAC Strategy through Digital Platforms”. This activity was held on Wednesday, (4/12/2024).
This activity was led by Dr. Hendi Subandi, SE., MA., Ak., CA., IIAP., as the Chief Executive of Mitra Mengabdi FEB. Supported by the implementing team, one of which is Misbakhul Munir, SE., ME., who is also the main speaker. This event was also attended by Drs. Njunariadi, Acting Head of the Blitar City Library and Archives Service, who gave his full support to this initiative.
Dr. Hendi Subandi said that by implementing the Situation, Objectives, Strategy, Tactics, Action, Control (SOSTAC) marketing strategy, UMKM players are expected to be able to increase the competitiveness of their products in the local and national markets.
“We believe that UMKM is the backbone of the regional economy. By providing training and mentoring based on modern marketing strategies, we hope that UMKM in Blitar City can grow faster and more sustainably,” said Dr. Hendi Subandi.
The activity began with a presentation session presented by Misbakhul Munir. He guided the participants to understand and apply the SOSTAC analysis according to the characteristics of their businesses. Participants were also introduced to artificial intelligence (AI) technology that can be used to create creative promotional content on social media. In the practical session, participants were given the opportunity to create a SOSTAC-based marketing plan directly. They were taught how to analyze the opportunities for superior products that have high potential in the marketplace.
In addition, the Mitra Mengabdi FEB UB team also provided tips on how to utilize digital platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and e-commerce to reach more consumers.
The results of this activity were very positive. The participants, most of whom were MSMEs in various sectors, succeeded in compiling a SOSTAC analysis that was relevant to their business, utilizing AI to create creative and interesting promotional content, and analyzing the opportunities for superior products that have the potential to be sold in the marketplace.
Drs. Njunariadi, in his remarks, expressed his appreciation for this initiative.
“We hope that this training can be a starting point for MSMEs in Blitar City to be more confident in competing in the digital era. Thank you to FEB UB for your dedication in supporting local economic development,” he said.
The FEB UB Mitra Mengabdi Program has proven its success in increasing the capacity of MSMEs in Blitar City.
“In addition to providing new knowledge, this activity also provides direct experience in developing innovative marketing strategies. With the implementation of the SOSTAC strategy, MSMEs are now better prepared to face market challenges in the digital era. FEB hopes that similar initiatives can continue and inspire more parties to contribute to community empowerment. Blitar City, with all its potential, now has a greater opportunity to increase the competitiveness of local products in a wider market,” said Misbakhul Munir, SE., ME. (*/UB PR/ Trans. Iir).
