| Abstrakt: |
A study on the Empowerment Model of Small Traders in Traditional Markets through the Multipurpose Charity Loan Program (Iman Portal) was conducted in Karanganyar from May to September 2023. This research aims to find an effective empowerment model to alleviate traders from usury practices. A qualitative approach was employed through interviews, direct observations, social media observations, and literature studies. Traditional market locations were selected based on having more than 150 traders, and five markets were chosen: Bejen, Jungke, Nglano, Jaten, and Palur. Fifteen key informants, consisting of Market Managers, traders, officials from the Islamic Infaq Bank Karanganyar, and media reports related to Infaq bank activities throughout Indonesia, were interviewed. The research results indicate that usury practices significantly burden traders, but they have limited options for quick access to capital without complicated requirements. The presence of the Infaq Bank in eradicating usury practices has been beneficial to many businesses in Indonesia. In the Karanganyar region, the Infaq Bank, named Bank Infaq Islamic Karanganyar, has been operating for over two years. Seven study groups were formed for the empowerment of traders, with a total of 178 beneficiaries absorbing funds amounting to IDR 278,000,000. The empowerment model for small traders in traditional markets through collaboration with the Iman Portal innovation has received positive responses in five traditional markets, as evidenced by the desire of worshippers, including traders, to become permanent members of the Iman Portal study groups. This empowerment model involves four key roles: benefactors, motivators, administrators, and beneficiaries of the Iman Portal. In conclusion, this empowerment model is acceptable for implementation among the worshippers of the Islamic Infaq Bank Karanganyar and the traditional market trader community in Karanganyar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
