Developing a Sustainable Business Model for Goat and Fish Farming: A Community Empowerment Program in Rural Jepara, Indonesia

Abstract

Objective: This community service program aimed to empower rural farmers in Kepuk Village, Bangsri District, Jepara Regency, through the development of an integrated business model for goat and fish farming. The objective was to enhance entrepreneurial capacity, increase productivity, and establish sustainable local business institutions that efficiently utilize local resources. Design & Methods: The program adopted a participatory action research approach, combined with the Business Model Canvas (BMC) framework, to help participants identify key components of their business structure, including value propositions, customer segments, revenue streams, and cost structures. Activities included training, mentoring, and collaborative business model development involving 30 participants from two farmer groups. Data were collected through pre-test and post-test questionnaires, direct observations, and focus group discussions. The analysis focused on measuring changes in participants’ entrepreneurial knowledge, productivity efficiency, and institutional collaboration. Result: The findings revealed a significant improvement in participants’ entrepreneurial literacy, from 46% (pre-test) to 82% (post-test). Four new locally based business models were developed: (1) organic goat farming, (2) fish farming using goat waste, (3) organic fertilizer production, and (4) an integrated goat–fish business model. The integration of these systems reduced feed costs by 18% and increased fish production by 12%. Moreover, two new collaborative business groups (Barokah Farm and Arif Farm) were successfully established, thereby strengthening the community's economic and social cohesion. The program demonstrated that participatory business model development could be an effective tool for enhancing rural economic sustainability and fostering circular economy practices in local communities.