The EU DigiTOUR project – co-funded by the COSME Programme of the European Union – aims at shaping the next generation of EU tourism SMEs to untap the potentials of the digital realm, with specific emphasis on AI, IoT, VR and AR, and big data.
The project will support the digital transition of the European tourism SMEs lagging behind in the adoption and full exploitation of digital technologies by:
★Up-skilling their digital competencies;
★Bridging the lack of digital knowledge by identifying required digital skills for staff members and collaborators;
★Financially supporting the digital transition by the implementation of a biz programme.
The project is conducted by a consortium of 10 partners from 5 countries:
- X23 is an Italian organization that provides innovation support services to startups, SMEs, and large companies in different topics. Among its activities, X23 runs its incubator and accelerator with a set of targeted growth programs for startup and high-growth SMEs.
- ISNART, the Italian National Institute of Tourism Research, focuses on studies, investigations, and publications on tourism. It also supports Italian tourism SMEs, helping them improve their quality, competitiveness, and sustainability.
- CroAI, the Croatian Artificial Intelligence Association, brings together leading companies and startups in the field of AI in Croatia, providing continuous support throughout events, workshops, and mentoring.
- AR/VRTech is a Serbian software company specialized in Augmented and Virtual Reality and its mission is to continuously develop smart and innovative technological solutions across different verticals: marketing, retail, education, tourism, art entertainment, and others.
- Dunavnet is a Serbian product development company that designs and licenses its solutions based on IoT and AI technologies. The company's expertise lies in the domain of designing and provisioning turnkey IoT/Al solutions to integration with cloud services, domain-specific data analytics algorithms, and client dashboards.
- ALGEBRA LAB is an open innovation lab and incubator, part of Algebra University College, the flagship of the largest private educational organization in Croatia. Through Algebra Lab, SMEs and startups can access technology testing, finance advice, market intelligence, and networking opportunities.
- Social Impact provides non-profit social innovation and startup consultancy for social and inclusive entrepreneurs in Germany and beyond. Since 2011 Social Impact Labs have provided incubation and qualification programs for over 300 startups providing co-working spaces, training, consulting, and mentoring.
- Transformation Lighthouse is a Slovenian team of professionals that provides knowledge and tools for the companies to step firmly on the path of transformation of business and culture, where organizing hackathons play a major role in it. In fact, through the years, it has become one of the most recognized organizers of on-location and online hackathons.
- ITKAM is a German-based business support organization providing every year around 500 SMEs with business development assistance. Over the last years, it has been focussing on promoting the innovation of SMEs through knowledge transfer capacity building activities and contacts with the key institutions both in Germany and in Italy.
- Startup Turismo is a not-for-profit association, recognized as the only Italian association which represents the Italian travel startups ecosystem. It is committed to building a favorable environment for the associated startups through dialogue with institutional and industrial decision-makers. Startup Turismo favors the culture of entrepreneurship by promoting innovation through dedicated events and networking occasions between the startups of the tourism and cultural sector.
We are thrilled to announce the 31 innovative companies that have emerged victorious in the Hackathon program of the EUDigiTOUR project.
Meet the Digital Champions: Traveleco, Leading Sustainable Tourism through Digitalization
Meet the Digital Champions: Weforguest, elevating Hotel Performance
In the ever-evolving landscape of the tourism sector, technological advancements have ushered in a digital transformation.
Join the EU DigiTOUR Hackathons: Transforming Tourism SMEs with Digital Innovation. Explore the Call for Tourism SMEs and be part of the digital transformation journey. Learn more!
Transformation Lighthouse is a team of professional and crazy people who like technology and innovation, but strive towards a better society that will put people first. Let’s meet Martin Jarc, Transformation Alchimist of the company who will be in charge of creating Hackathons for the EU DigiTOUR Project.
The tourism industry has always been at the forefront of embracing technological advancements to enhance the travel experience. We will dive into the top tech trends shaping the future of the tourism industry in 2023.
EU Green Week creates a space for meaningful discussions and debates surrounding EU environment policy. It invites participants to delve into the intricacies of environmental challenges, explore innovative solutions, and share knowledge and experiences. This opportunity is not just about understanding the policies, but also about celebrating the progress made in safeguarding our planet and fostering sustainable practices. On this occasion, X23 Innovation Bakery is hosting a Partner Event on the 7th of June focused on Tourism , a remarkable moment for tourism professionals to enhance their skills and expertise in the areas of green, blue, and digital practices. With the ever-increasing demand for innovative and sustainable travel experiences, staying informed about the latest trends and embracing new skill sets has become crucial for businesses aiming to thrive in the tourism industry. EU DigiTOUR project will take center stage and be actively involved in the event, particularly during the contribution of Associazione Startup Turismo, Project Communication Manager , that will delve into the interconnectedness of sustainability and digitalization in the tourism sector. It aims to equip future generations with the necessary skills and foster innovation within the industry. The event will feature a series of keynote speeches, interactive sessions, and discussions led by experts in the field. Here is a breakdown of the agenda for the day: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/eu-green-week-tourism-skills-for-digital-and-green-transition-tickets-638731271427 Why Upskilling matters? In today's rapidly evolving world, tourists are seeking unique and eco-conscious ways to explore the world. The traditional approach to tourism is no longer sufficient; travelers now desire memorable experiences that align with their values of environmental responsibility and conservation. To meet these changing demands, tourism professionals must equip themselves with the necessary tools and knowledge. Green Skills The concept of green skills encompasses a wide range of environmentally friendly practices that promote sustainability in the tourism sector. These skills include understanding and implementing renewable energy solutions, waste management, biodiversity preservation, sustainable transportation, and eco-friendly accommodation options. By acquiring green skills, tourism professionals can ensure that their offerings have a minimal ecological footprint while also attracting environmentally conscious travelers. Blue Skills Blue skills, on the other hand, are centered around the sustainable use and preservation of marine and coastal resources. With a significant portion of tourism activities taking place in coastal areas, it is crucial for professionals to be knowledgeable about marine conservation, responsible fishing practices, and the protection of fragile ecosystems. Embracing blue skills enables tourism operators to create experiences that showcase the beauty of the ocean while safeguarding its long-term health. Digital Skills The digital revolution has had a profound impact on the tourism industry. From online bookings to virtual tours, digitalization has transformed the way travelers plan, book, and experience their trips. By acquiring digital skills, tourism professionals can harness the power of technology to enhance customer experiences, optimize marketing strategies, and streamline operations. Digital skills include proficiency in social media management, data analytics, online marketing, and the use of emerging technologies such as augmented reality and virtual reality. EU Green Week - unlocking opportunities The EU Green Week is an unparalleled opportunity for tourism professionals to delve into these critical areas of green, blue, and digital skills. The event will bring together experts from the tourism sector who will share their insights and experiences, providing valuable guidance on how to incorporate sustainable practices into business operations. Attendees will gain access to the latest industry trends, innovative strategies, and success stories that highlight the benefits of embracing green, blue, and digital skills. By participating, tourism professionals can network with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and collaborate on initiatives that drive sustainability and resilience in the industry. This event serves as a catalyst for innovation, encouraging participants to develop outstanding and disruptive offerings that meet the evolving demands of the market. Limited spots are available , so don't miss out on this chance to participate in the EU Green Week Partner Event ! Register now using the link provided and embark on a transformative journey towards a sustainable and successful future in the tourism industry.
ITKAM is the Italian Chamber of Commerce for Germany and Programme Enabler Manager for EU DigiTOUR. Sonia Barani and Matilde Paganini are definitely the soul of ITKAM European Project Management. Two smiling faces and a great deal of commitment and passion awaited me during the interview. Let’s meet them!
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is exerting an ever-expanding influence on our lives. What is it, what are the main applications and the related ethical issues.
