Polije Empowers Cassava Chip SMEs Through Technology and Digital Marketing

Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) continues to strengthen its role in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Through its Community Service Program (PkM), lecturers and students from the Food Engineering Technology Study Program have partnered with Keripik Singkong Mega, a cassava chip home industry in Sempolan Village, Silo District.

Led by Dr. Elly Kurniawati, SP., MP., the initiative focuses on improving production technology and packaging design. “Through this mentoring program, we aim to enhance product quality while also boosting the marketing turnover of our partner SME,” she explained.

Funded by the Directorate of Research and Community Service at the Indonesian Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, the program includes training in frying technology, packaging, labeling, and food quality management. Polije also provided essential equipment such as a spinner, sealing machine, and onion slicer.

Team member Ir. Wahyu Suryaningsih, M.Si., highlighted the importance of branding support. “In addition to equipment, we created a new label design to make cassava chips more attractive and competitive in the market,” she said. Meanwhile, Dr. Titik Budiati, M.Sc., stressed the significance of legal compliance and digital strategies. “We assisted in securing food distribution permits (PIRT) and introduced marketing through digital platforms like TikTok,” she added.

With this support, Keripik Singkong Mega—previously limited to local markets—now has the opportunity to expand its sales reach and strengthen the competitiveness of Jember’s signature products in the broader marketplace.