Akselerasi Kemandirian Ekonomi Penyandang Disabilitas Melalui Kreativitas dan Kompetensi di Kabupaten Nganjuk

Abstract

Persons with disabilities in Nganjuk Regency numbered 18,742 individuals in 2024, with 62% in productive age. However, only 11.4% were engaged in formal or informal economic activities (Nganjuk Social Service, 2024). This condition is caused by limited access to training, lack of business mentoring, and low entrepreneurship literacy. This community engagement program aims to accelerate the economic independence of persons with disabilities by enhancing creativity and entrepreneurial competencies using the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) approach. The method was implemented through discover, dream, design, and deliver stages by utilizing community assets such as sewing skills, handicraft abilities, culinary expertise, and emerging digital literacy among several participants. Data were collected through observations of 37 participants, in-depth interviews with 15 disabled artisans, and an initial competency assessment showing that 73% had never attended formal business training. After a 3-month training cycle, results indicated that 82% of participants improved their technical skills, 68% successfully produced marketable products, and 25% began selling through social media and local marketplaces. Additionally, participants experienced an average income increase of 18–35%, with the highest growth among culinary and creative craft trainees. Findings confirm that the ABCD approach is effective in accelerating economic independence because it emphasizes community strengths rather than deficits. Collaboration among local government, disability communities, and business mentors plays a crucial role in ensuring program success. Sustainable follow-up, including MSME incubation, digital marketing assistance, and micro-financing support, is required to maintain long-term economic independence for persons with disabilities in Nganjuk Regency.