Empowering Agrarian Cooperatives Through Product Innovation: A Community Extension Approach to Entrepreneurial Resilience and Market Diversification

Abstract

This research-based community extension initiative explores technology management and product innovation as entrepreneurial strategies to enhance the business resilience of the Datag Maglinao Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association (DAMARBA), traditionally engaged in coffee production. To address the challenges of limited sales from a single product, the study introduces an innovative, value-added fruit jam as a means of product diversification and entrepreneurial growth. By incorporating okra mucilage into fruit jam, this initiative mitigates single-crop dependency and climate-related risks, offering a functional and novel product. The study assesses its feasibility, market potential, economic impact, and food safety considerations within DAMARBA’s operations. A technology management framework guided implementation, covering innovation adoption, process optimization, and knowledge transfer. A mixed-methods approach included product development, sensory evaluation, financial viability analysis, microbial analysis, and market research. Training workshops were conducted for 25 cooperative members on jam processing, food safety, and entrepreneurship. Sensory evaluation by 50 respondents yielded an average rating of 8.2/10, particularly for texture and mouthfeel due to okra mucilage’s stabilizing properties. Microbial analysis confirmed compliance with food safety standards, ensuring product stability and shelf-life viability. From a commercialization perspective, market analysis projected a 30% revenue increase compared to traditional fruit jams, while cost-benefit analysis indicated a 2.8 return on investment (ROI), demonstrating strong financial potential. This study highlights the economic advantage of leveraging local agricultural by-products to reduce reliance on external stabilizers and foster self-sufficiency. Okra mucilage enhances product quality and strengthens DAMARBA’s positioning in the functional food market. Beyond jam production, this initiative advances food processing technology by introducing an innovative stabilizer with broader applications. Effective technology transfer through capacity-building and process standardization ensured sustained adoption. Findings emphasize the need for continued investment in technology management, microbial safety assessment, small-scale processing equipment, and market linkages to enhance economic resilience and sustainability in rural agrarian communities.