Jakarta, July 12, 2026 – Sustainability has become one of the world's foremost priorities. As technology continues to accelerate the growth of industries, it also creates greater opportunities for people from all backgrounds to innovate and build their own businesses. However, for entrepreneurs, business growth and expansion are not solely about generating profit. They are equally about creating long term value and making meaningful contributions to society through sustainable practices.

This vision was at the heart of a Seminar and Workshop organized by the Directorate of Innovation and Business Development of Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA), in collaboration with the MKCU Center and the MBKM Center. The event, titled Technology and Sustainable Business Innovation: Accelerating Young Campus Entrepreneurs Toward the Global Market, was held at the Tanjung Duren Campus Auditorium in West Jakarta on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

The seminar attracted 200 students, several of whom enthusiastically showcased their entrepreneurial products through exhibition booths prepared as part of the event.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Harjono Padmono Putro, S.T., M.Kom., Dean of the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences, emphasized that the rapid transformation of today's business landscape presents a strategic opportunity that students should begin embracing as early as possible.

"The theme we have chosen is far more than just a title. It reflects the demands of our time. Students must prepare themselves early to compete in the global marketplace. The rise of artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and the expansion of the green economy have created tremendous opportunities for all of us to pursue entrepreneurship by developing innovative ideas that generate real impact," he said.

He continued, "The question is simple: Will we merely watch these changes unfold, or will we become the agents of change who help drive the global economy? I firmly believe that UNDIRA students will be among those creating that change. The greatest challenge of the 21st century is no longer a lack of knowledge, but our ability to broaden our perspectives and our willingness to adapt. Innovation does not always mean inventing something entirely new. It means having the courage to recognize opportunities that others overlook and transforming existing ideas into solutions that create added value."

According to Eriklex Donald Sahusilawane, S.E., M.M., Director of Innovation and Business Development at UNDIRA and the event moderator, the seminar and workshop reflect the Directorate's commitment to accelerating the development of entrepreneurial ecosystems and business strategies for students. The initiative aims to empower students not merely as supporters of economic growth but as active contributors who can strengthen Indonesia's economy through creativity and innovation.

Continuing the discussion, Andronico Parulian, S.E., M.Sc., Head of the West Jakarta Office for Industry, Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises (PPKUKM), explained that in today's era of digitalization and globalization, the government continues to expand access to entrepreneurial knowledge while encouraging communities to develop sustainable businesses.

He emphasized that entrepreneurs should not simply pursue businesses that are currently trending. Instead, they should focus on ventures with long term potential that can contribute meaningfully to the development of Indonesia's market.

To support this objective, the government has introduced a variety of assistance programs and digital platforms designed to bridge existing gaps, strengthen collaboration across sectors, and provide integrated privacy protection. These initiatives include platforms such as Jakpreneur, along with business financing programs through Bank Jakarta to empower the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Furthermore, during the interactive discussion led by Mr. Sugih Rahmansyah, S.E., M.M., Secretary of the Directorate General for National Export Development, he reaffirmed the true meaning of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the fundamental values and mindset that define a genuine entrepreneur.

"What does it mean to be an entrepreneur? An entrepreneur is not simply someone who seeks change, but someone who possesses the insight to respond effectively and adapt to opportunities under both favorable and challenging circumstances. Entrepreneurs are not gamblers, but individuals who build and grow their businesses through systematic and strategic approaches," he explained.

Through the From Local to Global initiative, Sugih Rahmansyah also highlighted the Ministry of Trade's commitment, together with the Directorate General of National Export Development, to expanding export opportunities for MSMEs and micro enterprises through product registration assistance, outreach programs, and systematic business development. In addition, students have opportunities to participate in internship programs at several overseas offices of the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia.

At the conclusion of the event, Sugih Rahmansyah and Andronico Parulian visited several student exhibition booths, providing direct feedback on product development and marketability. Following the review session, Andronico Parulian invited students to refine their products based on the recommendations received and submit them to the West Jakarta Regional Office as part of efforts to strengthen student led MSMEs.

The seminar and workshop demonstrated UNDIRA's strong commitment to nurturing a new generation of entrepreneurs who are adaptive, innovative, and driven by sustainability. Moving forward, continued collaboration with government institutions and strategic partners is expected to further empower UNDIRA students in realizing the vision of taking local innovation to the global stage.