Conclusions on the Characterization of Entrepreneurs and MSMEs in Indonesia Section

15 Table 7: Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs and MSMEs SEBAR Survey Challenges for Entrepreneurs 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 Hu ma n r es ou rce s Ac ce ss m ate ria l Fo rm al inf orm ati on La w Im po rt ex po rt p roc ed ur es Sl ow or lo st sa les Ma rke t u np re dic tab ilit y La te no pa ym en t Co st of pro pe rty Ina bli ty to ob tai n c re dit Co st of cre dit Int ele ctu al pr op er ty Co mp eti tio n Ot he r Num be r of R es po nc es Data Source: SEBAR Survey

I.6 Conclusions on the Characterization of Entrepreneurs and MSMEs in Indonesia Section

Although MSMEs are considered a driving force and are accredited for supporting the Indonesian economy during the Global Financial Crisis, the information above highlights that there are still many challenges and constraints for entrepreneurs and MSMEs. Firstly, entrepreneurs and business owners can take responsibility into their own hands by better utilizing a business plan, learning about professional business services, using government provided facilities, training employees, and continuously conducting market research. Moreover, companies must look to enter into more value added activities, producing goods or services that demand higher prices that are demanded by wider markets. Secondly, as evidenced by the Ease of Doing Business Indicator, the overall regulatory business environment is not as supportive of MSMEs as it should be. The government should continuously work to improve business regulations and the time required to issue relevant permits. If regulations are improved, it can be expected that more companies will formally register, expanding the tax base and increasing government revenues. Thirdly, business education and entrepreneurship skills need to be instilled into Indonesians at a young age. Almost everybody interviewed stated that the Indonesian mindset hampers entrepreneurial activities. Fourthly, credit facilities must be improved to improve profitable companies’ access to financing. An Angel Bank or a credit bureau would certainly help in directing funding to Indonesia’s future business leaders. Finally, infrastructure needs to be improved. Hopefully, by implementing the Master Plan for Accelerating Indonesian Economic Development MP3EI, infrastructure across the country will improve and ease the burden MSMEs face when operating their business. Recommendations on how to improve the business environment can be referenced in the “Conclusion and Recommendations” section. 16

Chapter II: Financing for Entrepreneurs and MSMEs