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.
Get Involved!
Apply as an Entrepreneur
Are you an LGBTQIA+ entrepreneur ready to scale your tourism business? Applications for the next cohort are coming soon!
Become a Mentor
Are you a tourism industry expert, business leader, or investor passionate about fostering LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurship? Join our mentorship program!
Support the Initiative
Want to sponsor, or collaborate with us? Whether you're an individual or a company, your support helps shape the future of LGBTQ+ tourism.
About the IGLTA Foundation
The IGLTA Foundation supports LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research and education. As the philanthropic arm of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (the world’s leading LGBTQ+ travel business association), the Foundation is able to count on the experience and contacts of 13,000+ tourism professionals in 80 countries.
The IGLTAF scope of work encompasses various initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and understanding travel landscape. Through its leadership programs, the Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming businesses to thrive and flourish in the industry. Additionally, the Foundation actively engages in research endeavors to deepen insights into the unique needs and preferences of LGBTQ+ travellers.
Through its multifaceted approach, the IGLTA Foundation continues to make significant strides in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity within the global travel industry, fostering a more welcoming environment for all travellers.
TUI Care Foundation
The TUI Care Foundation believes in the power of tourism to create positive change. By supporting initiatives that drive sustainable development and community empowerment, TUI Care Foundation helps shape a more inclusive global tourism industry.