The empowerment of mosques as centers of the ummah’s economy has emerged as a significant agenda in contemporary Islamic development discourse. Traditionally regarded as spaces for spiritual devotion and religious instruction, mosques are increasingly acknowledged as dynamic institutions with the potential to drive inclusive socio-economic transformation. This growing recognition stems from both historical precedent and present-day needs, as Muslim communities around the world seek sustainable and values-based models for economic development.

Contemporary studies emphasize the strategic role mosques can play within local economic ecosystems—particularly when supported by enabling factors such as digital innovation, public policy, community networks, and the propagation of da’wah that emphasizes economic justice and communal responsibility (Al-Hakim et al., 2025). Among these variables, digitalization has proven especially catalytic. By adopting digital tools, mosques enhance administrative efficiency, transparency, and program dissemination, while also expanding their outreach to younger, tech-savvy demographics. In underserved regions, where formal economic access remains limited, digital platforms offer a bridge to inclusion, allowing mosques to serve as community anchors in both spiritual and material dimensions.

A particularly vital aspect of mosque-based empowerment lies in the management and strategic utilization of Islamic philanthropic instruments—zakat, infaq, and waqf. When administered in alignment with the ethical and developmental aims of Maqasid al-Shari’ah, these funds support a wide array of public goods, including education, healthcare, micro-enterprise development, and social safety nets (Haddade & Amin, 2024). This role has become especially pronounced in crisis contexts, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, where mosques played critical roles in distributing aid and maintaining community cohesion during lockdowns (Salleh et al., 2021). Such experiences have illuminated the broader societal contributions that mosques can make beyond religious guidance—particularly in contexts of social vulnerability and economic disruption (Samadou et al., 2023).

Nevertheless, despite this promising trajectory, the transformation of mosques into centers of economic vitality is not without challenges. Empirical research reveals persistent barriers, including limited institutional capacity, a shortage of skilled human resources, and inadequate strategic planning in the economic programming of mosques (Adhani et al., 2024). Additionally, the sustainability of mosque-based initiatives is often hampered by dependency on inconsistent funding and a lack of professional governance structures. Addressing these constraints requires a concerted effort to improve institutional management, strengthen capacity-building frameworks, and advance governance reforms that enhance accountability and performance.

Notably, evidence indicates that mosques with strategic orientation and strong governance frameworks demonstrate improved non-financial outcomes and deeper community impact (Omar et al., 2019). The integration of digital technologies—such as mobile applications for financial reporting, digital waqf platforms, and virtual education modules—further enhances the mosque’s ability to respond to evolving community needs while fostering greater engagement and trust among stakeholders (Saputra et al., 2018). In this light, the mosque emerges not only as a place of worship but also as a multifaceted institution capable of nurturing economic participation, civic engagement, and social solidarity.

In affirming the mosque’s potential as a center of the ummah’s economy, this book chapter aims to contribute to a broader scholarly and practical dialogue on how faith-based institutions can support sustainable development in Muslim societies. To this end, we extend an open invitation to researchers, practitioners, and policymakers from diverse disciplines—ranging from Islamic economics and public administration to community development and digital innovation—to contribute their insights, case studies, and theoretical reflections. Such collaborative engagement is crucial for deepening our understanding of the mosque’s transformative potential and for co-creating actionable frameworks that align spiritual values with socio-economic empowerment. Through this collective effort, we aspire to position the mosque as a key institution in advancing inclusive, ethical, and resilient development for the global Muslim ummah.

Proposed Themes for Contributions

1. Digitization and Technology Integration in Mosque Governance

The integration of digital technology in mosque governance represents a transformative shift that enhances the mosque’s role as a center of the ummah’s economic empowerment. Digitization facilitates transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency in managing Islamic social finance instruments such as zakat, infaq, and waqf. Cloud-based financial systems, mobile applications, and online donation platforms not only streamline fund management but also foster greater trust among congregants and stakeholders.

Digital tools enable broader community engagement by offering access to religious programs, services, and donations regardless of location. They also support professional administration through systems that monitor staff performance and program execution. Learning management systems (LMS) allow mosques to extend their educational role by offering training in areas such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and religious studies—particularly beneficial in underserved communities. Furthermore, the application of data analytics and geographic information systems (GIS) equips mosque leaders with insights to make data-driven decisions, map community needs, and measure program outcomes. These advancements position the mosque as a hybrid institution that bridges spiritual functions with socio-economic development.

Despite these benefits, challenges such as digital illiteracy, infrastructural limitations, and organizational resistance remain. Overcoming these requires investment in capacity building and collaborative partnerships with Islamic fintechs, academic institutions, and policy stakeholders. Ultimately, technology is a critical enabler for mosque transformation—aligning traditional religious functions with the demands of modern governance. Through strategic digital integration, mosques can become inclusive, resilient institutions driving spiritual and economic progress in the Muslim world.

2. Networking and Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration

This chapter explores the critical role of networking and multi-stakeholder collaboration in empowering mosques as centers of the ummah’s economy. The sustainability and impact of mosque-based economic initiatives depend not only on internal capacity but also on the strength of external linkages with key actors in the broader socio-economic ecosystem. Effective collaboration between mosques, government agencies, Islamic financial institutions, academic bodies, community-based organizations, and the private sector is essential to scale innovations, mobilize resources, and align development goals.

Multi-stakeholder collaboration allows mosques to transcend their traditional roles by serving as nodes in value-based development networks. For example, partnerships with Islamic microfinance institutions can facilitate access to capital for local entrepreneurs, while engagement with educational institutions can enhance skills training and digital literacy among congregants. Meanwhile, collaboration with local government enables policy alignment, technical assistance, and formal recognition of mosque-led initiatives in national development strategies.

This chapter also highlights models of successful collaboration, such as mosque-led cooperatives, public-private partnerships in waqf asset development, and inter-mosque networks that pool resources and share best practices. Central to these efforts is the need for shared vision, governance structures, and participatory planning that respects the spiritual mission of the mosque while enabling socio-economic innovation. In an increasingly interconnected world, networking and collaboration are not optional—they are strategic imperatives. Strengthening these linkages positions mosques to become inclusive, adaptive institutions capable of addressing complex community needs and advancing the collective welfare of the ummah.

3. Regulatory Frameworks for Mosque-Based Economic Initiatives

This chapter explores the critical role of regulatory frameworks in enabling and sustaining mosque-based economic initiatives within the broader objective of empowering mosques as centers of the ummah’s economy. As mosques increasingly participate in the management of Islamic social finance—such as zakat, infaq, and waqf—and engage in socio-economic development projects, the absence or inadequacy of clear legal and institutional guidelines often poses significant barriers to their effectiveness, transparency, and scalability.

The chapter analyzes existing regulatory environments across several Muslim-majority contexts, examining how national laws, religious decrees, and administrative structures impact mosque autonomy, financial governance, and public accountability. It highlights successful models of legal integration, where state-sanctioned frameworks harmonize with Islamic principles to empower mosques as legally recognized socio-economic entities.

Moreover, the discussion emphasizes the need for standardization of operational practices, including financial reporting, waqf asset management, licensing of economic activities, and integration with national development plans. It also addresses regulatory gaps, ambiguities, and inconsistencies that may hinder innovation and limit mosque participation in broader economic ecosystems.

Importantly, the chapter calls for the development of inclusive, Shariah-compliant policies that ensure mosque-based initiatives are not only legally protected but also strategically supported through fiscal incentives, capacity-building programs, and digital governance tools. By bridging religious legitimacy with legal clarity, effective regulatory frameworks can unlock the full potential of mosques as trusted institutions driving grassroots economic empowerment, social welfare, and ethical development.

4. Da’wah as a Medium for Socio-Economic Awareness

This chapter explores the strategic function of da’wah not only as a medium of religious instruction but also as a catalyst for socio-economic awareness and transformation. Traditionally focused on spiritual guidance, da’wah has evolved in its relevance and reach, increasingly addressing issues such as poverty alleviation, financial literacy, ethical entrepreneurship, and community empowerment. When framed within the objectives of Maqasid al-Shari’ah, da’wah becomes a powerful tool to promote justice, welfare, and sustainability within Muslim societies.

Mosques, as the central institutions for da’wah, hold a unique position to shape public discourse and behavior. By incorporating socio-economic themes into sermons, educational programs, and community outreach, da’wah can raise awareness about the importance of productive economic behavior, the ethical use of wealth, and the collective responsibility to support the needy through zakat, infaq, and waqf. Moreover, contemporary da’wah can leverage digital platforms to disseminate inclusive economic narratives and mobilize wider participation in mosque-led development initiatives.

The chapter also addresses the role of da’i (preachers) as agents of social change who must be equipped with both religious knowledge and socio-economic literacy. Empowering da’i with contextual understanding enhances their ability to connect Islamic teachings with real-world challenges, especially among youth and marginalized groups. In essence, this chapter positions da’wah as an integral pillar in mosque-based economic empowerment—bridging moral-spiritual consciousness with practical community development, and reaffirming the mosque’s holistic role in advancing the welfare of the ummah.

5. Mosque-Based Financial Support in Crisis Contexts

In times of crisis—whether caused by pandemics, natural disasters, economic downturns, or social upheavals—mosques have historically played a vital role in providing immediate and sustained financial support to vulnerable populations. This chapter explores how mosques function as community-based financial hubs during emergencies, offering both material aid and spiritual reassurance. Drawing on case studies from contexts such as the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia and Indonesia, the chapter illustrates how mosques mobilized zakat, infaq, and waqf funds to deliver food, cash assistance, and essential services to those most affected by lockdowns and income disruptions.

By leveraging their trusted position within the community, mosques can respond more rapidly and effectively than many formal institutions. Their ability to assess needs at the grassroots level, coupled with their access to philanthropic resources, makes them uniquely positioned to support inclusive crisis response and recovery. Furthermore, the chapter highlights the integration of digital tools—such as mobile payment systems and online fundraising platforms—that enhanced the efficiency and transparency of mosque-led relief programs during the pandemic.

However, limitations in institutional capacity, coordination mechanisms, and governance structures often constrain the scalability of these efforts. This chapter concludes by offering policy recommendations and strategic frameworks to strengthen the role of mosques in future crisis preparedness and resilience-building. Ultimately, mosque-based financial support in crisis contexts demonstrates how faith-driven institutions can serve as anchors of social safety and economic solidarity during periods of uncertainty.

6. Economic Activities and Small Business Incubation around Mosques

Mosques possess untapped potential not only as spiritual centers but also as catalysts for grassroots economic development. This chapter explores the role of mosques in facilitating economic activities and incubating small businesses within their surrounding communities. Positioned at the heart of Muslim social life, mosques can serve as trusted platforms to stimulate entrepreneurship, promote local trade, and build sustainable livelihoods—especially in low-income urban and rural settings.

By leveraging existing social capital and trust networks, mosques can support small business incubation through access to shared spaces, mentorship, and community-based financing mechanisms such as micro-waqf or cooperative savings (koperasi masjid). Programs that integrate Islamic finance principles with practical entrepreneurship training have shown promising results in improving self-employment, household resilience, and social mobility. Furthermore, mosque-affiliated cooperatives and bazaars can strengthen the halal economy by connecting local producers with consumers in a faith-aligned market ecosystem.

This chapter argues for a structured approach to mosque-led incubation models—emphasizing inclusive participation, gender-sensitive programming, and digital enablement to broaden outreach. In reimagining mosques as economic empowerment hubs, small business incubation becomes a tangible means to translate religious values into real-world socio-economic impact. The chapter invites further research and collaboration to unlock the full potential of mosque-centered entrepreneurship as a pillar of the ummah’s sustainable development.

7. Governance and Management of Islamic Social Finance Instruments

This chapter explores the critical role of governance and management in optimizing Islamic social finance instruments—zakat, infaq, and waqf—as strategic tools for empowering mosques to serve as centers of the ummah’s economy. While these instruments are grounded in the principles of justice, redistribution, and communal welfare, their transformative potential depends heavily on how they are governed, administered, and integrated into institutional frameworks.

The chapter emphasizes the need for transparent, accountable, and professional governance structures to manage these funds effectively. Drawing on best practices and case studies, it outlines mechanisms for improving fund collection, allocation, and reporting through Shariah-compliant financial systems and community participation. Special attention is given to aligning the management of zakat, infaq, and waqf with the objectives of Maqasid al-Shari’ah, ensuring that funds support sustainable initiatives in education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and entrepreneurship.

Furthermore, the chapter examines institutional challenges—such as fragmentation, limited capacity, and lack of digital integration—that often hinder the scalability and impact of mosque-based social finance programs. It proposes governance models that combine traditional religious values with modern administrative standards, including performance monitoring, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.

Ultimately, this chapter underscores that strengthening the governance of Islamic social finance is essential for positioning mosques as viable socio-economic institutions. It invites scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to rethink mosque governance in ways that unlock the full potential of Islamic philanthropy for inclusive and resilient community development.

8. Strategic Orientation and Performance Metrics in Mosque Leadership

This chapter explores the critical role of strategic orientation and performance measurement in enhancing mosque leadership for socio-economic empowerment. As mosques expand their functions beyond spiritual guidance to include economic development and community welfare, leadership effectiveness becomes central to institutional impact. Strategic orientation refers to the mosque’s ability to align its vision, goals, and programs with broader socio-economic priorities of the ummah. A clearly defined strategic direction—grounded in Maqasid al-Shari’ah—enables mosque leaders to allocate resources more effectively, foster innovation, and strengthen long-term sustainability.

The chapter highlights the importance of adopting performance metrics to assess both financial and non-financial outcomes. Financial metrics may include transparency in zakat and waqf management, while non-financial indicators focus on social impact, education access, volunteer engagement, and service delivery. By institutionalizing performance evaluation, mosque leadership can make data-informed decisions, enhance stakeholder trust, and demonstrate accountability to the community.

Furthermore, the chapter examines how strategic leadership practices—such as stakeholder mapping, community needs assessment, and program monitoring—can transform mosques into proactive development actors. It also addresses the barriers to implementing strategic governance, including lack of professional training, fragmented decision-making, and resistance to change.

9. Mosques as Agents of Community Empowerment and Poverty Alleviation

This chapter explores the evolving role of mosques as pivotal agents in community empowerment and poverty alleviation within Muslim societies. Traditionally serving as centers for worship and religious instruction, mosques today possess untapped potential to address socio-economic challenges facing the ummah. Drawing on both historical legacy and contemporary case studies, this chapter highlights how mosques, when equipped with strategic vision and institutional capacity, can serve as inclusive platforms for economic justice, social welfare, and local development.

Central to this empowerment process is the effective mobilization and governance of Islamic philanthropic instruments—zakat, infaq, and waqf—which can be channeled toward microfinance, education, healthcare, and job creation initiatives. These instruments, when aligned with the principles of Maqasid al-Shari’ah, offer sustainable solutions to poverty and inequality.

The chapter also emphasizes the importance of mosque-led programs in skill development, entrepreneurship training, and cooperative economic ventures, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, youth, and informal workers. Through community-based models of empowerment, mosques can become catalysts for resilience and self-reliance. However, realizing this potential requires overcoming structural constraints, including limited managerial capacity, funding gaps, and weak partnerships. The chapter concludes by offering strategic recommendations for integrating mosques into national poverty alleviation frameworks, promoting multisectoral collaboration, and enhancing mosque autonomy.

10. Mosque-Based Education and Social Cohesion Initiatives

This chapter explores the pivotal role of mosque-based education and social cohesion initiatives in fostering holistic community empowerment. Historically, mosques have functioned not only as places of worship but also as centers of learning and social integration. In contemporary contexts, this role is being revitalized to address modern societal challenges, including inequality, youth marginalization, and weakening community bonds.

Mosque-based education encompasses both formal and informal learning, ranging from Qur’anic instruction and Islamic jurisprudence to vocational training, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. These programs, especially when integrated with community development goals, equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for socio-economic mobility. Moreover, mosques are uniquely positioned to offer inclusive and value-driven education that reinforces ethical conduct, mutual respect, and civic responsibility.

In parallel, social cohesion initiatives—such as intergenerational forums, youth mentoring, family counseling, and community service—strengthen interpersonal relationships and build trust among diverse members of the ummah. These activities reduce social fragmentation and foster a shared sense of identity and purpose rooted in Islamic values. The chapter highlights best practices, case studies, and policy recommendations for enhancing the educational and social functions of mosques. It argues that when mosques are empowered to serve as platforms for both learning and social solidarity, they can become powerful agents of community resilience and inclusive development.

11. Revitalizing Waqf for Sustainable Mosque-Based Development

This chapter explores the critical role of waqf revitalization in promoting sustainable, mosque-centered development within contemporary Muslim societies. Historically, waqf has been a cornerstone of Islamic socio-economic infrastructure, supporting education, healthcare, public utilities, and religious institutions. However, in many contexts today, waqf assets remain underutilized due to legal, administrative, and institutional challenges. This chapter argues that empowering mosques through effective waqf management can re-establish them as central pillars of community welfare and economic resilience.

By aligning waqf governance with the principles of Maqasid al-Shari’ah and modern development frameworks, mosques can serve not only as spiritual centers but also as hubs for inclusive growth. The chapter highlights strategic approaches such as professional asset management, integration with digital platforms (e.g., e-waqf systems), and the establishment of mosque-based micro-enterprises financed through productive waqf. These initiatives can support job creation, educational programs, and essential social services at the grassroots level.The chapter also addresses the importance of enabling legal frameworks, community engagement, and multi-stakeholder collaboration—including partnerships with Islamic financial institutions and government bodies.

12. Developing Halal Goods and Service Ecosystems via Mosque Networks

This chapter explores the strategic potential of mosque networks in developing localized halal goods and service ecosystems as a means to empower the ummah’s economy. As trusted institutions deeply embedded within Muslim communities, mosques offer unique social capital, infrastructure, and legitimacy that can be mobilized to support halal entrepreneurship, promote ethical consumption, and strengthen the halal value chain. By acting as community anchors, mosques can facilitate access to markets, disseminate halal certification awareness, and connect producers, consumers, and regulators through trusted channels.

The development of halal ecosystems via mosque networks includes not only food and beverage industries but also halal tourism, Islamic finance, modest fashion, and wellness sectors. Through education, awareness campaigns, and small business incubation programs, mosques can nurture a new generation of Muslim entrepreneurs aligned with Islamic ethical principles. Furthermore, mosque cooperatives (baitul maal wat tamwil, waqf-based enterprises, and community-supported agriculture models) provide platforms for integrating religious obligations with market participation.

The chapter also discusses enabling mechanisms such as digital platforms for halal marketplace aggregation, strategic partnerships with halal certifying bodies, and the role of mosque-based governance in ensuring compliance and consumer trust. By leveraging their relational and moral authority, mosques can help shape inclusive, resilient halal ecosystems that support both local livelihoods and broader economic development goals.

Submission Instructions

• Authors are invited to submit manuscripts ranging from 7,000 to 10,000 words (inclusive of references and footnotes, but exclusive of figures and tables) no later than 30 September 2025 through the following submission link. In parallel, the manuscript in Word format along with a title page should be sent via email to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdurrahman, M.T at editor@islamicbr.ac.id.
• All submissions must be original works and must not be under review or published elsewhere.

Opportunities for Selected Contributions

• Authors whose papers are selected will be invited to present a 15-minute lightning talk at the Islamic Business Review Virtual Conference, scheduled for October 2025.
• As part of the collaborative review process, corresponding authors will also be asked to peer-review two other submissions.
• Following a rigorous peer-review process, accepted papers will be compiled and published as book chapters in an edited e-book and/or print volume, with publication anticipated by the end of 2025.

There is no submission fee for papers submitted to this special edition.

 

References

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Al-Hakim, S., Sonjaya, A., Adityawati, S., Rahmayanti, A. Z., & Rozikin, O. (2025). Mosque-Based Economic Transformation: Ecosystem Model Analysis Using ANP. International Journal of Sustainable Development and Planning, 20(2), 623–633. https://doi.org/10.18280/ijsdp.200213

Haddade, A. W., & Amin, Ad. R. M. (2024). Utilisation of Mosque Funds for Public Welfare Based on Maqasid al-Shari’ah Perspectives. Manchester Journal of Transnational Islamic Law and Practice, 20(3), 177–189. https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85211252658&partnerID=40&md5=b1ea3f504afc1328e3412ce0858d2e68

Omar, A. R. C., Hussin, M. Y. M., & Muhammad, F. (2019). Assessing strategic orientation and mosques performance. Research in World Economy, 10(5), 30–35. https://doi.org/10.5430/rwe.v10n5p30

Salleh, J. M., Karim, M. S., Kedin, N. A., & Sulaiman, S. B. (2021). The roles of mosque in sympathizing the kariah members during the movement control order (MCO) period. AIP Conference Proceedings, 2347. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0053247

Samadou, D. A., Rab, M. A. A., & Mebrouki, T. (2023). PREVENTIVE MEASURES RELATED TO MOSQUES TO LIMIT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19: A STUDY FROM MAQASID SYARIAH PERSPECTIVE FOR GOVERNANCE SYSTEM. Malaysian Journal of Syariah and Law, 11(2), 215–229. https://doi.org/10.33102/mjsl.vol11no2.441

Saputra, K., Farhan, K., & Irvanizam, I. (2018). Analysis on the Comparison of Retrofit and Volley Libraries on Android-Based Mosque Application. Proceedings - 2nd 2018 International Conference on Electrical Engineering and Informatics, ICELTICs 2018, 117–121. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICELTICS.2018.8548881