Public Sector Strategic Management for Developing Entrepreneurial Capabilities in the Traditional Nakhon Phanom Kalamare Production Value Chain

Abstract

         This research aims 1) to examine the public sector’s policies and strategic management plans for developing the entrepreneurial capabilities of businesses in the traditional Nakhon Phanom kalamare production value chain; 2) to investigate the level of entrepreneurial capabilities of businesses within the production value chain; and 3) to propose effective public sector strategic management approaches.  A mixed-methods research design was employed, and data were collected from 32 groups of entrepreneurs involved in the production value chain.
          The research findings reveal that public sector policies still lack specificity regarding local products, as they primarily emphasize support through general policy frameworks such as the OTOP program and the grassroots economy initiative. The overall level of entrepreneurial capability among entrepreneurs was found to be moderate (Mean = 2.40), whereas banana growers, in particular, demonstrated a low level of entrepreneurial capability (Mean = 1.06). The proposed strategic management approaches for the public sector include: (1) providing appropriate funding sources and credit support, (2) developing entrepreneurial capacity through training and business advisory services, (3) promoting partnership networks and marketing collaboration, (4) upgrading product standards, and (5) supporting digital marketing. These measures serve as key mechanisms for enhancing competitiveness and fostering sustainable business growth at both local and national levels. The study further suggests that the public sector should formulate integrated policies tailored to the potential levels of each group within the production value chain. Financial support should be provided to banana growers through low-interest loan programs for installing solar energy systems or drip irrigation systems, together with training on separating business and household accounts. In addition, important strategic mechanisms should be established, including the development of individual production planning platforms and the promotion of collaborative research with educational institutions to extend the shelf life of kalamare products without the use of preservatives. These initiatives would help strengthen sustainable business growth.