Legal and Digitalization Support for MSMEs in Pematang Gajah Village through NIB, Halal Certification, and Google Business Profile on Google Maps

Abstract

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are key drivers of Indonesia's economy; however, many business owners still face challenges regarding legality and digitalization, which hinder their competitiveness and market expansion. This volunteer initiative aims to enhance the legality and digitalization of MSMEs in Pematang Gajah Village, Muaro Jambi Regency, by providing assistance with obtaining the Business Identification Number (NIB) and Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP), securing "Self-Declare" Halal Certification, and creating Google Business Profiles integrated with Google Maps. The project partners include the Pematang Gajah Village Government and local MSME owners. A participatory and collaborative approach was employed, comprising preparation, implementation, and evaluation phases. Activities included initial coordination, MSME data collection, assistance with business legalization and digitalization, and a final evaluation. The initiative successfully documented 126 MSMEs, facilitated the issuance of 28 NIBs and 2 NPWPs, supported 13 "Self-Declare" Halal Certification applications, and established digital business profiles via Google Business Profiles integrated with Google Maps. This activity improved MSME owners' understanding of the importance of business legality, digital technology utilization, and entrepreneurial capacity building, while strengthening synergy among higher education institutions, the village government, and the community in support of SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).