Farmer group empowerment in developing joint venture (Study case at Karya Jasa 3 Group in Kendal)

Abstract

This study aims to obtain an effective strategy for group empowerment in increasing joint efforts. The Karya Jasa 3 group in Kaliyoso-Kendal was the object of the present study. Data were collected from March to June 2020. The data taken included assets owned by farmer groups, group businesses, and group cash financial data. Data were collected through interviews with farmer group leaders and direct observation in the field. The data obtained were analyzed in an explanative manner. The results show that the group empowerment carried out was to build a joint business, in the form of an economic business unit which included: 1) Seed business; 2) Agricultural machine tool service unit; 3) Marketing of agricultural product; 4) Savings and loan business; and 5) Agricultural production supply store. The joint venture that has been built has been able to provide benefits for group members. Business profit was divided as follows: 70% for the group and 30% for members. Benefits for members are used to increase togetherness in the form of social activities. It was found that the strategic approach of empowering farmer groups in joint ventures should not only focus on productive business but also on social activities. Therefore, it was a portion of business profit used for recreation, religious events, or traditional occasions.