Universitas Andalas Researcher Receives Best Presenter Award for Inclusive Entrepreneurship Research

Padang (ANTARA) - A research team from Universitas Andalas (Unand) received international recognition after Assoc. Prof. Dr, Dessy Kurnia Sari won the Best Presenter Award at the 8th International Conference on Rural Development and Entrepreneurship (ICORE) 2026, held on July 15–16 in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The award was presented for her research on inclusive entrepreneurship, which highlights how entrepreneurs with disabilities in Indonesia are using digital innovation to build sustainable businesses.

The research was led by Assoc. Prof. Dessy Kurnia Sari, a consumer behavior expert from the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Andalas, in collaboration with researchers from Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Universitas Halu Oleo, Kendari, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan and Majmaah University in Saudi Arabia. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing research that supports the development of a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Indonesia.

At the conference, the team presented findings that showcase the inspiring experiences of entrepreneurs with disabilities who continue to grow their businesses despite facing significant challenges. The study reveals how disability-owned micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are embracing innovation and adapting to an increasingly digital business environment.

The findings show that digital technology, particularly social media and live-streaming platforms, has become a powerful tool for expanding market reach and building consumer trust. These technologies allow entrepreneurs with disabilities to connect with customers and promote their products without being constrained by physical mobility. The research also highlights the importance of family support, strong community networks, and lasting customer relationships in helping these businesses remain resilient. At the same time, many entrepreneurs continue to face barriers, including limited access to technology, physical challenges, and social stigma.

According to Assoc. Prof. Dessy Kurnia Sari, ICORE 2026 provided an important platform to share Indonesia's experiences with the international academic community while exchanging ideas on creating a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

"Entrepreneurs with disabilities have tremendous potential to contribute to the economy when they are supported by inclusive policies, digital technology, and equal opportunities. We hope this research can encourage stronger collaboration among governments, universities, industry, and communities to create a more accessible and empowering business environment," she said.

In addition to receiving the Best Presenter Award, Dessy's participation at the conference opened new opportunities for international collaboration. Several researchers from overseas universities expressed interest in developing joint research projects, international publications, and academic exchange programs with Universitas Andalas.

The research is expected to provide valuable insights for governments, business organizations, and other stakeholders in designing policies that strengthen disability-inclusive entrepreneurship through digital innovation, capacity building, and broader market access. It also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

This activity is funded by the Indonesian Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) on behalf of the Indonesian Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, and managed under the EQUITY Program, Contract No. 4304/B3/DT.03.08/2025