Cash Waqf Crowdfunding Model for SMEs

Abstract

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in the economic growth. However, the industry has been facing challenges due to lack of access to finance among entrepreneurs. This chapter explores alternative financing platforms for SMEs and proposes specific solutions to the credit risk of SMEs. Authors used a structured literature review approach to analyse relevant publication to provide evidence on the application of cash Waqf as a viable source of Islamic finance for the SME sector. The donation-based cash Waqf model for SME financing is developed under the lens of stakeholder theory and Maqasid al-Shari'ah. The model is expected to provide greater insight to Waqf institutions on their role to operationalise the conceptual model in fostering the growth of SMEs and change the perception of stakeholders about the dynamics and potential of cash Waqf in economic development.