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Submitted
October 29, 2024
Accepted
January 9, 2026
Published
April 30, 2026
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Abstract

This study explores how communication within social networks
mediates access to resources and entrepreneurial success among people with disabilities. Moving beyond resource-based perspectives that emphasize financial capital, the research applies a communicative–relational framework integrating social capital theory and communication theory of resilience. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach using the Analytic Hierarchy Process with five expert informants to identify and prioritize key factors affecting business performance among disabled micro-entrepreneurs in Indonesia. Results reveal that while financial resources remain foundational, their impact depends heavily on communicative linkages across disability support organizations, mentorship structures, and community networks. Social network communication serves as a mediating mechanism that converts tangible resources into adaptive capacity, innovation, and social recognition. The findings underscore the need for inclusive entrepreneurship programs that enhance both resource accessibility and communicative competence, positioning communication as a form of social capital essential for sustainable development.


 

Keywords

Analytic Hierarchy Process inclusive entrepreneurship people with disabilities social capital social network communication

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Copyright (c) 2026 Fachmi Ibrahim, Djuara P. Lubis, Pudji Muljono, Dwi Sadono

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Author Biographies

Djuara P. Lubis, Department of Communication and Community Development Sciences, Faculty of Human Ecology, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia.

Department of Communication and Community Development Science, Faculty of Human Ecology, IPB University, Indonesia

Pudji Muljono, Department of Communication and Community Development Sciences, Faculty of Human Ecology, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia.

Department of Communication and Community Development Science, Faculty of Human Ecology, IPB University, Indonesia

How to Cite
Ibrahim, F., P. Lubis, D. ., Muljono, P., & Sadono, D. (2026). Smashing barriers: Strengthening supportive social network communication for disabled small to medium-sized enterprises. Jurnal Komunikasi, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.20885/komunikasi.vol20.iss1.art2
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