Second Place in the National Business Plan Competition! A Group of Development Economics Students Offers Digital Solutions for MSMEs

Students of the Development Economics Study Program at UPN “Veteran” Yogyakarta achieved second place in the National Business Plan Competition organized by the Banking and Finance Student Association of the Vocational School at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) on September 21, 2024. The team, comprising Keysha Oktavia Rhamadhani (Development Economics 2022), Sumarah Pujiati (Development Economics 2023), and Ester Tania (Development Economics 2023), recorded an outstanding achievement amid fierce competition with participants from various universities across Indonesia.

The competition consisted of several stages. The initial phase began with the preparation of proposals assessed by a panel of judges comprising academics and entrepreneurs. The UPN “Veteran” Yogyakarta team advanced to the final round, which featured the top 10 finalists. The final round, held on September 20, 2024, in Solo, tested participants through pitch deck presentations in front of the judges and an audience. The final assessment was based on the quality of ideas, proposed strategies, and the team's ability to convince the judges of the potential and sustainability of their business proposal.

Under the theme "Empowering Youth: Leveraging Fintech for Entrepreneurial Innovation," the UPN team proposed a business model for an application designed to assist micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Klaten Regency. The application, named UMKLO, serves as a solution to enhance the competitiveness of MSMEs in the digital era. UMKLO (UMKM Klaten Online) aims to support the digital transformation of MSMEs with user-friendly navigation and well-organized product categories, making transactions smooth and efficient for users.

Sumarah Pujiati, one of the team members, expressed that this achievement was the result of hard work and solid collaboration among the team members. Despite facing challenges, such as overcoming laziness while drafting proposals during semester breaks and internships, the team's high motivation led UPN “Veteran” Yogyakarta to this accomplishment. They also extended their gratitude to the Research Economic Development (RED) study group for their support and input during the competition process. This achievement reflects innovative business ideas and the ability to utilize technology to support MSMEs while proving that UPN “Veteran” Yogyakarta students can compete at the national level and contribute significantly to advancing the MSME sector in Indonesia.