SOCIAL CAPITAL STRENGTHENING STRATEGY TO DEVELOP INNOVATION CAPABILITIES IN VEGETABLE NURSERY FARMING (STUDY CASE IN WANGUNSARI VILLAGE, LEMBANG, WEST BANDUNG)

• Main Author: An'amillah, Azifah
• Format: Theses
• Language: Indonesia
• Online Access: https://digilib.itb.ac.id/gdl/view/76064
• Institution: Institut Teknologi Bandung

<p align="justify"> Vegetable nursery farming plays a crucial role in the agricultural supply chain of West Java. Wangunsari Village stands as a pioneering village that spearheaded the establishment of vegetable nurseries as thriving business units. However, the development of vegetable nursery farming faces challenges as nursery farmers rely solely on experiential knowledge and limited information. Moreover, the scarcity of available labor and subsistence-based businesses signify vulnerability in slow business growth. To surmount these obstacles, innovation is imperative. Encouraging individual nursery farmers to embrace innovation encounters various hurdles. Yet, by combining the knowledge possessed by each farmer, a formidable strength and valuable asset can be harnessed for creating innovation. These assets are the social resources known as social capital. This study aims to assess the state of social capital in vegetable nursery farming within Wangunsari Village, analyze the impact of social capital on the development of innovation capabilities in vegetable nursery farming, and formulate strategies to strengthen social capital and foster innovation capabilities within the village. The research employs both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data collection techniques encompass structured and semi-structured interviews, along with participatory observation. The data analysis entails social network analysis using UCINET 6.0, qualitative descriptive analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and SWOTQSPM analysis. The findings reveal that the condition of network ties can be elucidated through social network analysis, indicating a weak network bond with a density value of 10.3%. Trust within the vegetable nursery farming sector exhibits vulnerability, particularly in relations with external parties. Existing norms have evolved into mutually agreed-upon rules, while a shared vision is seen as a collective goal to be achieved. Social capital significantly influences the development of innovation capabilities in vegetable nursery farming in Wangunsari Village. The presence of network ties facilitates access to costeffective and timely information for identifying and verifying innovative decisions. Trust fosters a business environment that embraces bold experimentation. Norms provide support and incentives for innovation-driven behavior. A shared vision facilitates effective communication among business members, fostering a culture of innovative ideas. Based on the SWOT-QSPM analysis, the top priority for strengthening social capital is expanding the market network, as indicated by the highest TAS score of 5,21.