Wayra, Telefónica’s corporate venture capital arm, is partnering with TUI Care Foundation and Target 8.9 to launch TUI Futureshapers, an open innovation initiative aimed at promoting technological solutions that contribute to more sustainable tourism.
The process will target startups in mobility, hospitality, accommodation and other travel-related verticals. From all applicants, eight startups will be selected to join a five-month acceleration program. Wayra will lead the acceleration of these projects and coordinate a mentoring and workshop itinerary.
“With TUI Futureshapers Spain, we are creating a platform that connects young talent with the tourism industry to jointly develop solutions that drive more sustainable tourism. Spain is one of the world’s leading tourist destinations and an ideal environment for open innovation. Through this program, we aim to empower the next generation of tourism innovators and help turn promising ideas into solutions with a positive impact on destinations, local communities and the wider tourism ecosystem,” said Alexander Panczuk, Managing Director of TUI Care Foundation.
“At Wayra, we are delighted to collaborate with TUI Care Foundation in the search for and application of technological solutions that contribute to more sustainable tourism. Their work in creating opportunities in destinations and supporting local communities naturally aligns with our commitment to open innovation and entrepreneurial talent as a lever for sector transformation,” added Andrés Saborido, COO of Wayra.
Throughout the year, the program will be reinforced with networking and pitch sessions aimed at building a national network of travel-tech startups that fosters collaboration and visibility within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Building on the potential of tourism as a force for good, TUI Care Foundation supports and drives projects that create new opportunities and contribute to the development of thriving communities in tourist destinations around the world. By connecting travelers with good causes, it supports youth education and training, promotes the protection of natural habitats and the marine environment, and helps local communities thrive sustainably and benefit from tourism. TUI Care Foundation relies on strong partnerships with local and international organizations to generate meaningful and lasting impact. This independent charitable organization was founded by TUI, one of the world’s leading tourism companies, and is headquartered in the Netherlands.
Target 8.9 is a global development agency driven by TUI Care Foundation. It is dedicated to mobilizing financial and non-financial resources to generate meaningful and sustainable impacts in local tourist destinations, in line with Goal 8.9 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This specific goal promotes sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all, with a particular focus on the tourism sector and the promotion of local culture and products. Target 8.9’s main focus is to foster inclusive economic opportunities and social development, with a strong emphasis on landscape conservation and restoration.
Wayra is Telefónica’s Corporate Venture Capital arm. It invests in technology startups with the potential to generate innovation within the group and provides open innovation services to third parties. With a presence in Europe and Latin America, Wayra has invested more than €245 million in over 1,100 startups and currently has an active portfolio of more than 530 companies, over 200 of which collaborate with Telefónica. It also promotes open initiatives through its Alaian and Open Future platforms
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