Analysis Of Determining Factors Of The Effectiveness Of Zakat-Based Economic Empowerment With The MICMAC Approach

Abstract

The literature on zakat-based economic empowerment is still dominated by evaluative approaches based on output and distribution ratios, with limited attention to the systemic structures that shape long-term effectiveness. This study fills this gap by applying a structural modeling approach using the MICMAC (Matrix of Cross Impact Multiplication Applied to Classification) method to map key determinants in the Lazismu Jepara economic empowerment system. Data were obtained through expert assessment and institutional document analysis, then analyzed based on the level of influence and dependency of variables within the system. The results indicate that fundraising growth, total ZIS collection, and total program disbursement serve as the main structural drivers, while economic independence, fund allocation effectiveness, and program continuity are systemic outcomes that are highly dependent on these configurations. These findings confirm that the sustainability of empowerment is not determined by the size of distribution alone, but by the institutional capacity to systematically manage resource dynamics. Theoretically, this study repositions zakat evaluation towards structural analysis; methodologically expands the use of MICMAC in Islamic philanthropy; and practically provides an evidence-based strategic framework for zakat institutional governance reform.