TUI Futureshapers Global: LGBTQIA+ Travel Innovators Program
Empowering LGBTQIA+ Tourism Entrepreneurs in Emerging Destinations
About the Program
The TUI Futureshapers Global: LGBTQIA+ Travel Innovators Program is a first-of-its-kind initiative that invests in LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs shaping the future of tourism. A collaboration between the IGLTA Foundation and TUI Care Foundation, this program provides business training, mentorship, and access to global tourism networks to support sustainable, LGBTQIA+ inclusive tourism businesses.
We believe that LGBTQIA+ tourism is more than just a market—it’s a movement. By supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in emerging destinations, we help build a more inclusive and equitable tourism industry.
Why This Matters
🌍 LGBTQIA+ tourism is growing, but in many parts of the world, LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs lack access to business support, funding, and industry connections.
💡 Economic empowerment leads to social change—by strengthening LGBTQIA+ businesses, we create safe, welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ travelers and foster local acceptance.
🤝 Tourism should be for everyone—yet many destinations lack the infrastructure, government protections, or cultural support to sustain LGBTQIA+ tourism businesses.
This program is about real, lasting impact—not just visibility, but investment in businesses, people, and communities.
What the Program Offers
We provide a three-pronged approach to support LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs in tourism:
1. Business Training & Mentorship
📚 Virtual Capacity-Building Workshops – covering financial management, digital marketing, customer engagement, and business growth strategies.
👥 Mentorship Program – one-on-one coaching from industry leaders and successful LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs.
💡 Ongoing Technical Support – access to expert insights, online resources, and a collaborative support network.
2. Funding & Investment
🏆 Business Pitching Competition – selected entrepreneurs will pitch their businesses to a panel of investors and tourism leaders for the chance to win funding grants.
💰 Direct Financial Support – competitive grants will be awarded to businesses with the most innovative, scalable ideas.
3. Global Networking & Exposure
🌎 Connections to Global Markets – entrepreneurs will be introduced to key players in LGBTQIA+ tourism, from investors to travel brands.
🎤 Opportunities to Showcase Their Business – at major international tourism events like ITB Berlin and the IGLTA Global Convention.
🔗 Access to the IGLTA Network – participants will gain membership in IGLTA, joining a global community of over 13,000 LGBTQIA+ tourism businesses.
Who Can Apply?
The TUI Futureshapers Global: LGBTQIA+ Travel Innovators Program is open to:
✅ LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs in emerging tourism destinations – businesses located in regions where LGBTQ+ tourism is developing.
✅ Trans-owned businesses worldwide – ensuring representation and inclusion across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
✅ Small businesses in the tourism sector – including hotels, tour operators, travel agencies, event organizers, and creative services.
Priority Destinations
While the program has a global reach, we focus on emerging destinations—countries where LGBTQ+ tourism is growing but faces challenges such as lack of legal protections, community acceptance, or industry support.
Examples of priority destinations can be found here
💡 Not sure if your country qualifies? If you’re an LGBTQIA+ entrepreneur in a region where LGBTQ+ tourism is still developing, you’re encouraged to apply!
The Bigger Picture:
This program goes beyond business—it’s about economic inclusion and social impact.
✨ Driving Economic Growth – Strengthening LGBTQIA+ businesses means more jobs, more opportunities, and stronger local economies.
🌍 Building a More Inclusive Tourism Industry – Representation matters. When LGBTQIA+ businesses thrive, travelers benefit from safe, welcoming experiences.
🤝 Creating Lasting Change – LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurship helps shift cultural attitudes, paving the way for policy change and greater social acceptance.
