Enhancing Stakeholder Collaboration in Indonesian-Owned Businesses in the United States

Abstract

This research examines stakeholder engagement strategies among Indonesian restaurant owners in the United States, focusing on their operational success and business sustainability. Using a qualitative methodology, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with five purposively selected restaurant owners to investigate how they integrate stakeholder interests into business strategies, leverage government support, and adapt engagement practices across different sectors. The findings reveal three key challenges: insufficient frameworks for integrating stakeholder interests with business strategies, inadequate government support mechanisms, and inconsistent stakeholder engagement practices. The study identified successful informal approaches to stakeholder management, particularly in balancing cultural authenticity with market demands. However, it also uncovered significant gaps between government support programs\u27 intended outcomes and their practical implementation. The research contributes to theoretical understanding by suggesting modifications to stakeholder theory for diaspora enterprises and practical implications for enhancing government support mechanisms. The findings emphasize the need for improved frameworks that consider the unique challenges of cultural food businesses while maintaining authenticity in international markets. Keywords: Stakeholder engagement, stakeholder collaboration, diaspora entrepreneurship, government support, gastrodiplomac