COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT MODEL IN UPGRADING GRASSROOTS ECONOMY IN SATUN UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK

Abstract

This research article aimed to study the potential and role of factors promoting the development of a community enterprise model in upgrading the grassroots economy in Satun UNESCO Global Geopark. This study employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing qualitative and quantitative methodologies, with the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark as the area of the study. The population for this research consisted of 56 entrepreneurs or representatives from community enterprises in the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark, selected through purposive sampling. The research tools included four types: 1) questionnaires 2) assessment forms 3) In-depth Interviews and 4) focus groups. In qualitative research, data were analyzed using data comparison principles, extracting meaning from data, and drawing inductive conclusions. For the quantitative research, descriptive statistics such as Mean and Standard Deviation were employed, along with data comparison between significant groups.

The findings were that community enterprise groups were established and operational before the establishment of Satun Geopark, and played a pivotal role in its recognition as Thailand’s first UNESCO Global Geopark. Presently, there is a need to bolster local communities through economic activities, adapting to the new normal and harnessing digital technology via information and communication networks to advance towards a digital economy society. The researcher developed a community enterprise development model to enhance the grassroots economy in the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark, comprising four main components: 1) Community Enterprise Potential, 2) Community Network Participation, 3) Creating Values and Benefits Acceptance, and 4) Public Benefits and Environment Conservation.