The needs analysis conducted with 14 tourism SMEs in France revealed critical requirements that align with Topic 11 of the Transition Pathway, focusing on easily accessible best practices, peer learning, and networking for SMEs. Post-COVID-19, financial stability emerged as a concern, with SMEs seeking funding to sustain operations and support digital transformation initiatives. They expressed a pressing need for accessible digital tools and training in digital skills to enhance competitiveness in the market. Sustainability was identified as a key priority, although challenges in implementation persisted due to financial constraints and the lack of commitment from potential partners.
The TOURISME project, for example, aimed to promote sustainable tourism development through collaborative networks and knowledge sharing, emphasizing the importance of accessible best practices and networking opportunities for SMEs, enabling them to adopt sustainable strategies effectively. The lessons learnt from TOURISME underscored the value of peer learning in driving positive change within the tourism industry. SusTour, on the other hand, focused on enhancing the capacities of tour operators and travel agents for sustainable tourism. SusTour’s emphasis on training, certification, and market linkages provided SMEs with valuable tools and insights to engage in sustainable practices and access information crucial for their transition. The project’s outcomes highlight the critical role of collaboration platforms and accessible resources in supporting SMEs’ engagement in sustainable tourism. Additionally, the Ecotours initiative aimed to promote eco-friendly tourism practices and raise awareness about environmental conservation among tourism stakeholders. Ecotours’ efforts in advocating for responsible tourism align closely with the objectives of Topic 11, emphasizing peer learning, networking, and the dissemination of best practices.
These projects collectively demonstrate the significance of collaborative approaches, knowledge exchange, and accessible resources in empowering SMEs to embrace sustainable tourism practices and contribute to the twin transition towards a greener and more resilient tourism sector. Several valuable lessons can be gleaned from the above-mentioned initiatives relevant to the twin transition and Topic 11, which focuses on accessible best practices, peer learning, and networking for SMEs in the tourism sector.
Los proyectos pusieron de relieve la importancia de las redes de colaboración y las plataformas de intercambio de conocimientos para promover prácticas turísticas sostenibles entre las PYMEs. Al facilitar el aprendizaje entre iguales y proporcionar recursos accesibles, estas iniciativas demostraron cómo las PYMEs pueden adoptar y aplicar eficazmente estrategias sostenibles en sus empresas. Los resultados subrayan el papel fundamental de la información accesible y las plataformas de colaboración para apoyar el compromiso de las PYMEs con las prácticas sostenibles y fomentar la transformación de todo el sector.
