TUI Futureshapers: Empowering Sustainable Tourism Entrepreneurs for a Brighter Future

## TUI Futureshapers: Empowering Sustainable Tourism Entrepreneurs for a Brighter Future

The tourism sector, a behemoth contributing over 10% to global GDP and generating millions of jobs, often presents hurdles for small businesses seeking the funding and support they need to thrive. This is especially true for entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups, such as women, ethnic minorities, and social enterprises committed to community and environmental impact.

Recognizing this gap, the

TUI Futureshapers program

, a collaborative effort between the

TUI Care Foundation

and

UnTours Foundation

, is stepping in to empower these entrepreneurs. This program offers flexible and affordable capital alongside expert mentorship, providing the tools these businesses need to maximize their positive influence on local communities.

A Collaborative Force for Change

At the heart of TUI Futureshapers lies a potent partnership between two leading organizations. The

TUI Care Foundation

, with its deep understanding of the global tourism ecosystem, offers businesses invaluable access to markets, shared knowledge, and professional mentorship from top tourism experts within the TUI Group.

UnTours Foundation

, renowned for its catalytic investing approach, ensures that the capital provided is both flexible and affordable, allowing businesses to navigate their unique challenges.

This collaboration goes beyond mere financial support. TUI Futureshapers provides extensive technical assistance and personalized mentorship, equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge essential for long-term sustainability. As funds are repaid and reinvested, the program creates a ripple effect, supporting a continuous wave of new ventures and positive impacts within the tourism industry.

Investing in Local Communities and the Environment

The TUI Futureshapers program is more than just an investment; it’s a statement. It demonstrates the potential of investing in locally owned tourism businesses to achieve both financial returns and significant positive impacts on communities and the environment. The program meticulously selects businesses that prioritize community enhancement and environmental conservation, aiming to inspire a shift in investment priorities within the tourism sector.

Real-World Examples of Positive Impact

Astungkara Way

, based in Bali, Indonesia, is a prime example of the program’s success. This ecotourism agency, dedicated to preserving traditional agricultural practices, offers immersive travel experiences including trekking, farm tours, glamping, and educational courses on sustainable farming. TUI Futureshapers’ support has enabled Astungkara Way to expand its rural trail network and connect local farmers to new markets, boosting the local economy while promoting sustainable practices.

In Cambodia,

Siem Reaper Travel

, a locally owned bicycle tour company, is another testament to the program’s power. Specializing in sustainable travel adventures throughout Southeast Asia, Siem Reaper Travel offers guided cycling tours that immerse visitors in the region’s rich culture and natural beauty while minimizing environmental impact. The company’s Local Guide Training Center, focused on youth development and employment opportunities, further underscores its commitment to community upliftment. TUI Futureshapers has empowered Siem Reaper Travel to upgrade its bicycle fleet and enhance its marketing efforts, reaching a larger audience and generating even greater positive social, economic, and environmental impacts.

Coral Colabs

, the organization behind Global Coralition, is tackling the urgent issue of marine ecosystem regeneration. With a mission to unite art, science, and communities, Global Coralition aims to restore 50 reef sites by 2050. Through the TUI Futureshapers program, Coral Colabs is building a coral farm in the Dominican Republic, where visitors can participate in marine conservation efforts by planting mangroves and attaching corals to underwater sculptures. This initiative not only protects vital marine ecosystems but also creates sustainable tourism opportunities by offering educational experiences for both local and international tourists.

In Rwanda,

Red Rocks Rwanda

, a social enterprise promoting sustainable tourism in and around Volcanoes National Park, is also benefiting from the program. Red Rocks Rwanda offers unique, community-based experiences like cooking classes, nature walks, and cultural immersion activities, allowing international tourists to engage with local communities and contribute to the conservation of Rwanda’s natural and cultural heritage. TUI Futureshapers has enabled Red Rocks Rwanda to expand its marketing efforts and develop new services, creating additional value for tourists and contributing to sustainable economic development in the region.

A Global Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

Businesses supported by TUI Futureshapers are spread across diverse regions, from Cape Verde to Greece, Senegal to Tunisia, each united by a common goal: to transform social challenges into entrepreneurial opportunities that benefit both local communities and the environment. By empowering these businesses with the capital and technical assistance they need to succeed, TUI Futureshapers is fostering a new wave of tourism entrepreneurs committed to positive change.

October is the

TUI Care Foundation’s ‘Entrepreneurship October,’

a month dedicated to supporting sustainable tourism businesses. Throughout the month, the Foundation will launch new projects and highlight the importance of empowering small businesses with a holistic approach that includes financial assistance, mentorship, and access to the tourism market. The goal is to create an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive, even in the most remote and underserved destinations.

Building a Sustainable Future for Tourism

The TUI Futureshapers program is a testament to the power of tourism as a force for good. By providing capital, mentorship, and technical support to tourism entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups, the program is building a more inclusive and sustainable future for the industry. Through partnerships with organizations like UnTours Foundation, TUI Futureshapers is proving that investing in locally owned, community-enhancing tourism businesses can create lasting positive impacts on both people and the planet.

As the tourism sector recovers from recent challenges, initiatives like TUI Futureshapers will be instrumental in shaping the future of the industry. By supporting businesses that prioritize community, culture, and the environment, TUI Futureshapers is ensuring that tourism contributes not only to economic growth but also to a more sustainable and equitable world for generations to come.