The Normafa Research team is currently assisting its clients in collecting data on the adoption of financial technology (fintech) among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in both rural and urban areas of South Sumatera province, Indonesia. This research aims to capture levels of awareness, usage patterns, and barriers to fintech adoption among MSME actors, who form the backbone of Indonesia’s economy. By comparing trends between rural and urban respondents, the study seeks to highlight the digital divide and identify potential strategies to promote inclusive fintech access across different geographic regions.
This research is being conducted in support of a client who has received a competitive research grant under the Regular Fundamental Research scheme, facilitated by the Indonesian government through BIMA. The grant supports initiatives that provide empirical evidence for policymaking and economic development. Normafa’s role is critical in ensuring that data collection is methodologically sound and representative, thereby enabling the research outcomes to be both academically rigorous and practically impactful. The findings are expected to inform strategies to increase fintech literacy, enhance digital infrastructure, and strengthen financial inclusion among MSMEs.
Ultimately, the results of this study will contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, which promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. By empowering MSMEs through improved access to digital financial services, this research supports efforts to foster innovation, boost productivity, and build more resilient local economies. In the long term, such initiatives can help bridge the economic gap between rural and urban communities, ensuring that the benefits of fintech innovation are equitably distributed across South Sumatera.