Penerapan Prinsip Ekonomi Islam dalam Operasional BMT sebagai Lembaga Keuangan Mikro Syariah

The increasing needs of life encourage people to seek funds from various sources, including those that are not in accordance with sharia principles such as interest and loan shark practices. In facing this challenge, Baitul Maal wat Tamwil (BMT) emerged as a sharia-based microfinance alternative that rejects the element of usury and emphasizes justice and blessings. The purpose of this study is to examine the application of sharia principles in financing activities at BMT, as well as analyze the challenges and opportunities for development, especially in Padangsidimpuan City. The method used in this research is a descriptive qualitative approach by conducting literature studies and case studies at BMT Insani. The findings of the research show that BMT has implemented sharia contracts such as murabahah and mudharabah in its financing activities. However, there are still some obstacles such as competition from conventional financial institutions, limited human resources, and low financial literacy among the community. Nevertheless, BMTs have significant opportunities to grow through increased education, product innovation, and strengthening of institutional structures.