The First Local UMKM Bazaar at IPB, Creative Market x ELKS Festival Was a Success!

The Creative Economy Division of Himasiera successfully launched the first time bazaar themed event at IPB University, showcasing a diverse array of community based UMKM. In collaboration with the Local Economy and Social Entrepreneurship course from the Department of Communication and Community Development Sciences (SKPM), Creative Market x ELKS Festival  made a vibrant debut, attracting enthusiastic crowds and creating a festive atmosphere.

On Wednesday, May 7 2025 the festival themed workshop took place in the lively FEMA Corridor at IPB University. The event aimed to foster synergy among students, academics, and UMKM actors. This collaboration between Himasiera and SKPM resulted in a refreshing initiative with meaningful impact.

The festival was a realization of the Creative Market program under the Creative Economy Division of Himasiera, combined with a workshop project from the Local Economy and Social Entrepreneurship course. Its goal was to strengthen local economies, provide hands-on entrepreneurial experience, and empower communities.

“The main objective of this event is to build synergy among various stakeholders while offering a platform for direct experience in entrepreneurship and community empowerment,” said Sharen the project leader.

Sharen also shared that one of the unique values of Creative Market lies in its narrative approach. Rather than simply focusing on transactions, the event embraced the concept of ‘selling stories’ This set it apart from conventional bazaars, offering a more engaging and meaningful experience.

Two Phases, One Purpose

The program was structured in two main phases. The pre-event stage featured Innovillage activities, such as the development of an e-catalog of UMKM partners. In addition to introducing products, the catalog also highlighted the background stories behind each UMKM. This approach aimed not only to promote products but also to raise awareness and encourage appreciation of community-based local economies.

The main event, Creative Market x Festival ELKS, was held on May 7 2025. It featured 28 UMKM from various groups, including Kelompok Wanita Tani (KWT), Kelompok Tani (Poktan), and other local business actors. A diverse range of products was offered ranging from snacks, full meals, beverages, fruits, vegetables, DIY art products, to batik each sourced from the unique commodities of their respective regions.

“The types of products offered by our UMKM partners were very diverse from food and drinks to accessories,” said Sharen.

“These products are made from local resources found in the surrounding environment of each UMKM, which gives them strong local character,” she added.

Product prices ranged from Rp3.000 to Rp200.000, all determined by the UMKM themselves without any interference from Himasiera or the department. Initial capital and profits fully belonged to the UMKM, making the event a genuine platform for empowerment and real support for local entrepreneurs.

Toward a Sustainable Empowerment Ecosystem

Creative Market x ELKS Festival was not designed as a one-time event, but as a sustainable program that will continue to grow. Long-term plans include scaling up the event, involving UMKM from broader regions, and building strategic partnerships with communities and institutions beyond IPB.

Sharen a representative of the Creative Economy Division, expressed their commitment to turning this event into a continuously growing synergy hub where students learn, UMKM thrive, and local economies are empowered.

“We from Creative Economy Division are super happy! This Creative Market was a big success. Hopefully, the next event will showcase even more diverse products and involve UMKM partners from a wider reach. We also hope to collaborate with parties beyond SKPM and even outside IPB,” she said during the interview.

Through Creative Market, the Creative Economy Division of Himasiera has shown that students can make a real-world impact beyond the classroom. They can serve as a bridge between theory and practice, between academia and the community. This festival became a creative platform where entrepreneurial spirit, community development, and appreciation for local products came together.