Peran Perempuan Single Mother Terhadap Perkembangan Bisnis UMKM Kuliner di Kota Nganjuk

Abstract

Single mother women play dual roles in their lives since losing their husbands due to death. In addition to being housewives, they often also take on the role of head of the family, namely earning a living to meet daily needs. This research aims to examine the role of single mother women in the development of the culinary MSME business at Food stalls Setiyo, located at Surodarmo, Nganjuk. This research uses a qualitative method with a case study approach, which allows researchers to explore the experiences and challenges faced by single mother women in managing the culinary business. Data was obtained through literature study, interview, observation, and documentation techniques. This research uses the entrepreneurship theory approach from Thomas W. Zimmerer. The results of this research show that single mother women have an active role in decision-making, operational management, and provide significant contributions to the growth and economic sustainability of the family. This research also identifies various supporting and inhibiting factors that influence business development, as well as challenges such as time constraints, physical and mental pressure, and intense market competition. These findings provide valuable insights to encourage the development of more inclusive culinary MSME businesses, by empowering single mother women as key actors. The main contribution of this research lies in the practical understanding of how single mother women can overcome obstacles through product innovation, effective time management, and mental resilience strategies, thereby contributing to improved family welfare and local economic growth.