Digitalization of MSMEs Through Fintech: A Strategy for Enhancing Local Economic Growth in Parepare
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33019/equity.v14i2.757Keywords:
MSME Digitalization, Fintech, Local Economy, Digital Transformation, Financial InclusionAbstract
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are a key pillar of Indonesia’s economy; however, the level of digital technology adoption among MSME actors, particularly in Parepare City, remains low. This study aims to analyze the level of MSME digitalization based on financial technology (fintech), identify factors influencing fintech adoption, and measure the impact of fintech implementation on MSME performance in Parepare City. This research employs a mixed-method approach with a descriptive qualitative method supported by simple quantitative data. The sample consists of 30 MSME actors selected through stratified random sampling, complemented by in-depth interviews with 30 key informants. The results indicate that the level of MSME digitalization in Parepare is still in the low to moderate category. E-wallets are the most widely used fintech service (50%), followed by QRIS (40%), mobile banking (33.3%), and P2P lending (16.7%). Fintech adoption has a positive impact on MSME performance, with 73.3% of respondents experiencing increased transaction efficiency, 53.3% reporting increased revenue, and 63.3% experiencing growth in customer numbers. The main barriers include low digital literacy (56.7%), limited internet access (26.7%), and lack of assistance (30%). This study recommends policy interventions in the form of integrated digital training, strengthening digital infrastructure, and ecosystem collaboration between government, financial institutions, and business actors.
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