Innovation of Banana Chips Salut with Multi-Strategy Approach to Increase Economic Value of Banana Commodity

Abstract

This paper presents the development and implementation of a socio-entrepreneurship initiative focused on increasing the economic value of banana products in Mertelu Village, Gedangsari District, through the production of Salut Banana Chips. This initiative responds to the suboptimal utilization of the abundant banana harvest in the area, which is often sold at low prices or thrown away. The program, implemented in collaboration with the UGM KKN-PPM team, aims to transform the local banana supply into a value-added product by developing a new variant of flavored banana chips. The methods used include data collection through observation and interviews with local stakeholders, followed by a series of training and mentoring sessions for local entrepreneurs. These sessions cover product development, business management, and digital marketing. The results show significant improvements in product quality, market reach, and legal compliance among participating businesses. The paper concludes that this initiative has successfully increased the economic value of the local banana industry while contributing to poverty alleviation and community empowerment in Mertelu.