Abstract: This paper proposes UmmahConnect, a conceptual multi-sided 4IR digital platform that aims to solve common issues in student event management across institutions of higher learning (IHL) globally. Currently, event information is often scattered across platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and social media, making it difficult for students to discover events and for organizers to manage vendors and sponsors effectively. This study uses the Design Thinking approach, supported by literature review, benchmarking of existing platforms, and the use of Business Model Canvas (BMC) and Value Proposition Canvas (VPC) to better understand user needs and design a suitable solution. The platform connects multiple customer segments (CS), including students as service seekers, event organizers as service providers, and vendors and sponsors as supporting partners within one ecosystem, aligning with the concept of multi-sided platforms. Future works include developing a business plan based on the validated business model and improving the platform’s scalability and long-term sustainability. Keywords: multi-sided platform, event management, digital platform, student engagement, business model canvas. Title: A Conceptual UmmahConnect Business Model: Institutions of Higher Learning Integrated Event Management and Circular Campus Economies Author: Alya Balqis binti Che Rahim, Nur Habriyah binti Mohd Ibrahim, Nur Niezaa Sakinah Binti Nor Azni, Abdul Rahman bin Ahmad Dahlan International Journal of Management and Commerce Innovations ISSN 2348-7585 (Online) Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026 Page No: 514-527 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 06-June-2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20570445 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/a-conceptual-ummahconnect-business-model-institutions-of-higher-learning-integrated-event-management-and-circular-campus-economies
Rahim et al. (Sat,) studied this question.