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.
The projects highlighted the importance of collaborative networks and knowledge-sharing platforms in promoting sustainable tourism practices among SMEs. By facilitating peer learning and providing accessible resources, these initiatives demonstrated how SMEs can effectively adopt and implement sustainable strategies within their businesses. The outcomes underscore the critical role of accessible information and collaborative platforms in supporting SMEs’ engagement in sustainable practices and fostering industry-wide transformation.
