Pendampingan Inovatif Penerapan Less Contact Economy Sebagai Respons Terhadap Dampak Pandemi

Abstract

This community service program aims to empower Small and Medium Industries (SMEs), particularly the Dodol Kentang enterprises in Kerinci–Jambi, through the application of the Less Contact Economy (LCE) approach, which emphasizes the use of digital technology across the business value chain. The program covers five main aspects, namely marketing and market access, product and packaging innovation, efficiency in ordering and payment, effective distribution, and capacity building through digital training, with implementation methods including preliminary surveys, program design, training, mentoring, and participatory evaluation. The results show significant improvements in the digital capabilities of the partners, their familiarity with non-cash payment methods, and their expanded access to markets through digital platforms. Product and packaging innovations were also enhanced, with the number of active e-commerce accounts increasing from 5 to 18, the use of QRIS digital payment systems rising from 20% to 35%, and product variations growing from 3 to 9, tripling the available options. These findings indicate that the LCE approach is relevant in fostering SMEs’ adaptation to changing consumer behavior in the digital era while simultaneously strengthening the sustainability of their businesses.