Blue Economy-Based MSME Financial Management Strategies in Palu City to Achieve Sustainable Business

Abstrak

This study aims to analyze the financial management practices of Blue Economy-based Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the coastal area of Palu Bay and to identify factors influencing their financial effectiveness. It also seeks to formulate sustainable financial strategies that support the resilience of coastal businesses. The research employed a qualitative approach using a small-scale exploratory case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation with five MSME owners in Kampung Nelayan (Kamnel) between October and November 2025. The findings reveal that most MSME owners have not yet implemented a structured financial record-keeping system and often mix personal and business finances. Key challenges in financial management include low financial literacy, a short-term business orientation, and limited training and support from government institutions. Nevertheless, some business owners have begun adopting financial technology tools, such as QRIS and Dana, for daily transactions, marking an initial step toward digital financial transformation. From an environmental perspective, MSME owners show emerging awareness of coastal cleanliness but have not yet integrated environmental conservation principles into their business practices. This study concludes that the sustainability of the Blue Economy in coastal communities requires strengthened financial literacy, optimized use of fintech, and enhanced environmental awareness. Collaborative efforts among the government, educational institutions, and local communities are essential to the development of resilient, adaptive, and sustainable coastal MSMEs.