Development of the Potential of Community Entrepreneurs in the Silk Industry: A Case Study of the Women's Weaving Group in Ban Samrong, Khao Yai Subdistrict, Sikhoraphum District, Surin Province

Abstract

This research article aims to 1) examine the potential of community entrepreneurs in the silk industry, 2) investigate the challenges and needs for enhancing the capabilities of these entrepreneurs, and 3) develop the potential of silk entrepreneurs who are members of the women's weaving group in Ban Samrong, Khao Yai Subdistrict, Sikhoraphum District, Surin Province. This study employs a participatory action research approach, which consists of three phases: (1) preparation, (2) research implementation, involving participatory workshops and collaborative development, and (3) follow-up and evaluation. Data collection methods include observation, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews. The findings reveal that 1) all members of the weaving group possess weaving skills, with some having pattern-dyeing skills; a few work as hired dyers, while only a minority raise silkworms. The primary products are scarves and shawls, with elephant patterns being popular, accounting for 90% of sales, primarily to middlemen, with limited online sales. Production capacity depends on the time members can dedicate to weaving, as many have other occupations, limiting their silk production. Members whose main occupation is weaving can produce 5-15 pieces per month. 2) The challenges and needs for developing the capabilities of community silk entrepreneurs include (1) issues: inability to set their own prices, low production costs, and production capacity below market demand, and (2) needs: 1) products: new silk patterns and packaging, 2) marketing: self-determined pricing and sources for selling silk, and 3) capacity development: learning modern techniques and site visits. 3) The development of the potential of community silk entrepreneurs will involve field discussions, group meetings to identify development strategies, and adherence to collaboratively established plans.