Economic Empowerment and Character Development through Social Entrepreneurship

This study explores the role of Social Entrepreneurship in fostering character-based economic empowerment within communities. The rapid advancements of Industry 4.0 and Society 5.0 demand enhanced competencies, expanded networks, and digital technology adoption. To address these changes, collaboration among citizens, governments, and social elements is essential in building a resilient, proactive, and competitive society through community-driven economic initiatives. Social Entrepreneurship integrates economic empowerment with social responsibility, integrity, and gotong royong (cooperation) to strengthen community resilience. Focusing on Kelurahan Sukamentri, Garut District, this qualitative study examines how economic empowerment and character development are implemented through Social Entrepreneurship. Data were collected through library research, field observations, and interviews. The findings show that Social Entrepreneurship fosters entrepreneurship and economic empowerment centers, encouraging trade, handicrafts, and digital marketing-based business expansion. Local government is key in facilitating cooperative activities and establishing community empowerment centers, enabling residents to engage in entrepreneurial activities and enhancing economic resilience. Social Entrepreneurship helps communities adapt to economic challenges by leveraging local resources and digital transformation. The study concludes that Social Entrepreneurship is essential for sustainable economic empowerment, combining entrepreneurship with character development to create self-sufficient communities. Insights from this research can guide policymakers, practitioners, and academics in strengthening community-based economic initiatives. Future research should explore long-term impacts, cross-cultural adaptations, and digital integration in Social Entrepreneurship.