GUIDELINES FOR STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY ENTERPRISES IN NAKHON NAYOK PROVINCE, THAILAND

Abstract

Community enterprises are an important mechanism for developing local economies and strengthening communities at the local level. This helps communities improve their well-being and become self-reliant, especially in Nakhon Nayok province, which has high development potential but still faces many challenges in strengthening community enterprises. The development and strengthening of community enterprises in this area therefore requires comprehensive and appropriate approaches to achieve success. This research aims to study approaches to strengthen community enterprises in Nakhon Nayok province. This research uses qualitative research methods. The key informants are: 1) Director-General of the Department of Agricultural Extension, 2) Director-General of the Cooperative Promotion Department, 3) Former Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, 4) Governor of Nakhon Nayok Province, 5) Deputy Governor of Nakhon Nayok Province, 6) Two Chairpersons of Community Enterprises, 7) Two Vice Chairpersons of Community Enterprises, totaling 9 key informants. The research findings show that strengthening community enterprises in Nakhon Nayok province requires comprehensive and diverse actions, ranging from developing members' skills, adding value to products, financial management, developing management systems, building cooperation and networks, to support from government and related organizations. Serious implementation of these approaches will help community enterprises grow and develop strength sustainably.