Strengthening Cooperative Competitiveness Through Capacity Building: A Community Service Program on Business Plan Development for Cooperative Managers in Semarang Regency

Abstract

Cooperatives play an essential role in supporting local economic development, yet many struggle with limited managerial competence and the absence of structured business planning. This community service program was conducted to enhance the capacity of cooperative managers in Semarang Regency through a three-day intensive training on business plan development. Hosted at The Wujil Resort & Conventions from May 22–24, 2023, the program involved 30 participants representing various cooperatives. The training combined interactive lectures, workshops, group discussions, and hands-on business plan drafting. Results indicate significant improvement in participants’ understanding of business planning, strategic thinking, financial projection, and market analysis. Participants also produced draft business plans tailored to their cooperative units. The program contributes to strengthening local cooperative governance and offers a replicable model for capacity building in community-based economic institutions.