IMPROVING LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT IN MANADO'SEAFC 24 COMMUNITIES: THE INFLUENCE OF CREATIVEECONOMIC SYSTEMS, PROFITABLE PROGRAMS, AND STAKEHOLDER

Abstract

Digital gaming communities have increasingly evolved beyond entertainment into platforms that support creative economic activities and community-based development. However, empirical evidence regarding their contribution to local economic development remains limited, particularly within EAFC 24 communities in Manado. This study aims to analyze the influence of Creative Economic Systems, Profitable Programs, and Stakeholder Collaboration on Community Empowerment and their impact on Local Economic Development. A quantitative approach with an explanatory research design was employed. Data were collected through structured questionnaires from 100 members of EAFC 24 communities in Manado using purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with RStudio. The results indicate that Creative Economic Systems, Profitable Programs, and Stakeholder Collaboration positively and significantly influence Community Empowerment. Furthermore, Community Empowerment has a positive and significant effect on Local Economic Development, with Stakeholder Collaboration showing the strongest influence among the independent variables. These findings suggest that strengthening collaboration, implementing sustainable programs, and promoting creative economic initiatives within gaming communities can enhance community capacity and contribute to local economic development.

Keywords: Creative Economic Systems, Profitable Programs, Stakeholder Collaboration, Community Empowerment, Local Economic Development.