TheINSPIRES programme.
A European initiative that helps small and medium tourism businesses strengthen three capacities at once: sustainability, digital transformation and resilience.
Tourism is one of Europe's most exciting and most essential sectors — one full of passion, creativity and unique local experiences. But in recent years, the sector has had to face major challenges: the COVID-19 pandemic, rising energy costs, climate change, labour shortages and the fast pace of digital transformation. For small and medium tourism businesses, these upheavals have often had serious consequences. That is why it is time to strengthen our resilience, to invest in innovation and to prepare for the future.
The INSPIRES project supports the funding of pioneering collaborative projects led by tourism SMEs. These initiatives aim to accelerate the sector's transition by promoting innovative solutions in sustainability and resilience.
In line with the European Union's Transition Pathway for Tourism and the objectives of the « Single Market Programme », INSPIRES supports businesses in developing value-creating projects, capable of strengthening their competitiveness while addressing environmental, economic and societal challenges.
Sustainability
Encouraging tourism SMEs to reduce their environmental impact, spread the seasons responsibly and build offerings that respect local communities.
Digital transformation
Helping small operators use digital tools — from booking to communication — to reach new audiences and work more efficiently.
Resilience
Equipping SMEs to adapt to disruptions, diversify their audience and remain viable in a changing market.
Accessibility sits at the crossroads of all three pillars.
It's a resilience strategy — widening the audience of tourism SMEs beyond able-bodied travellers in peak season.
It's a digital transformation opportunity — clearer information, better booking journeys, richer content.
And it's a sustainability commitment — building tourism that includes the communities it operates in.