The innovative best practice is the Green Cup, a 5-week long sustainability challenge organized by Up2You. It involves company teams competing against each other through missions and tasks on the PlaNet Green Cup platform. The challenge aims to complete missions, earn PlaNet Points, climb the rankings, and beat other teams while supporting certified carbon offset projects with EcoIn coins.

Companies can register one or more teams, each comprising a maximum of 10 participants, to take part in the Green Cup challenge. The challenge takes place on the PlaNet Green Cup platform, where teams share news, tips, and complete quizzes, photos, and videos related to environmental impact and digital emissions. The dedicated team at Up2You manages the platform, approves content, and calculates scores, relieving companies of administrative burdens.

The Green Cup challenge not only promotes sustainability practices within companies but also fosters team building, employee engagement, and a sense of collective responsibility towards the environment. By gamifying the sustainability journey and providing a platform for knowledge sharing, the Green Cup inspires participants to actively contribute to the green transition of their organizations.

Invitalia, as the national agency for inward investment and economic development, has implemented several programs and funding opportunities to support sustainable initiatives. Through financial support, grants, and incentives, Invitalia has encouraged SMEs to adopt environmentally friendly technologies, improve energy efficiency, and implement sustainable management practices. These initiatives have aimed to reduce the environmental impact of SMEs and promote their transition towards sustainability. The results of these projects include increased adoption of sustainable technologies, improved resource efficiency, and enhanced sustainability performance among participating SMEs.

SME Connect Italia has focused on fostering networking and collaboration among SMEs in Italy, including those in the tourism industry. This initiative aimed to facilitate knowledge sharing, peer learning, and collaboration opportunities within various sectors, including tourism. By connecting SMEs and providing platforms for exchanging ideas and experiences, SME Connect Italia aimed to drive innovation and the adoption of sustainable practices. The project has resulted in increased awareness of sustainable practices, the development of collaborative projects, and the sharing of successful case studies among SMEs.

Peer learning and networking are crucial for the growth and development of SMEs. By connecting with other industry professionals, SMEs can gain insights into innovative approaches, successful strategies, and emerging trends. This knowledge exchange helps SMEs understand industry dynamics and identify new opportunities for growth. Interacting with peers who have encountered similar issues provides diverse perspectives and potential solutions, saving time and resources while fostering innovation and resilience. Establishing relationships with complementary businesses enables SMEs to leverage each other’s strengths, creating synergistic opportunities. Collaborative projects, joint ventures, and shared resources can increase competitiveness, expand market reach, and enable tackling larger projects that might be beyond the capacities of individual SMEs. Networking also provides access to valuable resources such as funding opportunities, industry experts and specialized training programs, helping SMEs overcome barriers and accelerate growth. Peer learning and networking keep SMEs informed about market trends, customer preferences, and industry developments. Interactions with peers help gather market intelligence, identify emerging opportunities, and adapt strategies accordingly, which is essential for staying competitive. Building relationships with peers who understand the unique pressures of running a small business offers emotional support, encouragement, and motivation, helping SME owners navigate obstacles and maintain resilience. Moreover, peer learning and networking offer opportunities for professional development through workshops, seminars, conferences, and industry events. These activities enable SMEs to gain new skills, acquire industry certifications, and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in their field. Continuous learning fosters personal and professional growth, enhancing the capabilities of SMEs and their workforce.