Empowering Traditional SMEs through Participatory Innovation, Digitalization Strategies, and Product Diversification: A Community Service Study on Teh Gurah in Wukirsari, Yogyakarta

Abstract

This community service initiative was conducted in Wukirsari, Bantul, Yogyakarta, as part of the 1st International Community Services organized by Sustainable International Community Services (SICS). The program aimed to strengthen traditional entrepreneurship by supporting the transformation of gurah therapy—originally administered nasally—into Teh Gurah, an innovative, hygienic, and drinkable herbal tea product. Using a participatory qualitative approach, the program facilitated active collaboration between business actors, the local community, and supporting institutions. The study documented the evolution of the production process, regulatory compliance, community engagement, innovation potential, and operational challenges. Although the enterprise produces up to 40,000 tea boxes per month and holds BPOM and halal certifications, limitations remain in product diversification, long-term strategic planning, digital adoption, and resilience against market fluctuations. Recommendations include strengthening digitalization strategies, supporting product diversification (such as herbal capsules and instant tea), developing a sustainability roadmap, and enhancing partnerships with universities and local governments. The community service process contributed to the formulation of the Culturally Embedded Participatory Innovation (CEPI) model, which integrates local wisdom, simple technology adaptation, digital integration, and institutional synergy to empower traditional SMEs towards sustainable and competitive development. The findings highlight the need for continuous mentoring and comprehensive interventions to ensure that local heritage-based products like Teh Gurah thrive in both local and global markets