Grab, Emtek and BukaLapak Hold the #KotaMasaDepan Program, Aim for MSMEs in Small Cities

Starting in 2021, the #KotaMasaDepan (Real Collaboration for the Future) program raised by Grab, Emtek and BukaLapak consistently encourages the empowerment of MSMEs through assistance and funding. In 2023, this movement is being held again which focuses on MSMEs in cities tier 2 and 3 by adding training programs to improve the ability of MSME actors and guidance in making Business Identification Numbers (NIB).

In a press release received by Dailysocial NeoSME, Neneng Goenadi as Country Managing Director, Grab Indonesia said, "We believe in the extraordinary capabilities of small cities in Indonesia. #KotaMasaDepan is our long-term dedication with Emtek and Bukalapak. We continue to optimize every activity in the #KotaMasaDepan program to suit the needs of MSMEs. Thus, local businesses can grow not only from mastery of the digital economy and greater market access without the need to move, but also contribute to the local economy."

Training materials for business development provided to MSMEs in #KotaMasaDepan Stage 3 include creative content, use of social media, sales management on online platforms, digital marketing strategies through Grab and Bukalapak, education on halal certification both offline and online, as well as socialization on the creation and registration of NIB.

As for distribution modal, in the form of operational equipment which will later be distributed through a social fundraising site, BenihBaik. At least 100 MSMEs involved in the City of the Future 2023 will receive this capital, with selection based on the potential for long-term business sustainability.

The Center for Integrated Services for Cooperatives and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (PLUT-KUMKM) will also carry out these activities, in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment and the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs.

"We believe that the media plays a key role in realizing the rapid digitization of MSMEs, starting from socializing the onboarding program to digital platforms that provide opportunities for people throughout Indonesia to contribute and interact with MSME partners and mentors. With the support of the media platform from Emtek, We hope this can stimulate the development of MSMEs, encouraging their awareness to maximize the potential of digital platforms in their business," said Sutanto Hartono, Managing Director, Emtek.

For Grab itself, this is not the first program targeting MSMEs. Previously, together with OVO, they also held MSME Celebration 2023, with support from the Indonesian Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (Kemenkop UKM). This event was held as a form of recognition of the achievements and contributions of MSMEs under the platform Grab and Ovo. This event does not only present MSME bazaars and exhibitions, but also presents art performances, play areas for families, and sports activity sessions.