In the lush landscapes of Indonesia, a quiet revolution is brewing among young agricultural entrepreneurs, and it’s not just about growing crops—it’s about growing businesses. A recent study published in the Indonesian Journal of Agricultural Science, ‘Jurnal Ilmiah Pertanian’, by Yuliana Kansrini of the Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Medan Area, Medan, sheds light on the critical factors driving the success of these young agri-preneurs.
Indonesia’s agricultural sector is at a crossroads. While the country is rich in agricultural resources, the participation of young workers is declining due to limited entrepreneurial opportunities and inadequate business management skills. This is where the growth of young agricultural entrepreneurs (PWMP) program at Politeknik Pembangunan Pertanian (Polbangtan) Medan steps in, aiming to cultivate not just farmers, but business leaders.
The study, which employed a descriptive quantitative approach, revealed some intriguing insights. “We found that business management capabilities among these young entrepreneurs were remarkably high, at 79.68%,” Kansrini explains. This success is underpinned by a combination of strong personality traits, extensive experience, a supportive family environment, and a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. Interestingly, while knowledge levels were high, they did not significantly impact business management capabilities.
The research, which analyzed data through questionnaires and Likert scale measurements, found that personality, experience, family environment, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem significantly impacted business management capabilities. This suggests that while technical knowledge is crucial, it is the soft skills and supportive environment that often make the difference.
The implications of this research are profound. As Kansrini notes, “Structured interventions, such as internships and business incubation programs, could greatly enhance practical business skills and foster entrepreneurial success.” This could mean more young people are equipped to turn their agricultural ventures into profitable businesses, thereby bolstering the agricultural sector’s economic contributions.
The findings also highlight the need for a supportive ecosystem. This includes not just government policies, but also community support and access to mentorship and resources. “The entrepreneurial ecosystem plays a pivotal role,” Kansrini emphasizes. “It’s not just about having the skills, but also about having the support to apply them effectively.”
This research could shape future developments in the field by influencing policy decisions and program designs. By focusing on personality development, experiential learning, and ecosystem support, educational institutions and policymakers can create a more conducive environment for young agricultural entrepreneurs. This could lead to a more vibrant and economically robust agricultural sector, benefiting not just the young entrepreneurs, but the entire country.