The United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) has unveiled a groundbreaking collaboration with the Government of France through the launch of the UN Tourism National Open Innovation Challenge. This marks the first-ever partnership between UN Tourism and France, aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the global tourism industry.
France, recognized as the most visited country in the world with 100 million international tourist arrivals in 2023, is also a hotbed of innovation. Home to nearly 60,000 startups and boasting over 30 unicorns, France has positioned itself as a leader in technological advancement and entrepreneurship. The newly launched challenge will tap into this dynamic ecosystem, encouraging innovative solutions in the tourism sector that could shape the future of global travel.
Marina Ferrari, France’s Delegated Minister for Tourism Economy, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “As the world’s leading tourist destination and a land of innovation with a dynamic ecosystem of start-ups, France is now giving itself the resources it needs to nurture the future champions of travel tech. This is good news for the tourism economy, but it’s also good news for the planet.” She also highlighted the potential of startups in leading the charge toward sustainable and responsible tourism by offering innovative solutions to decarbonize the sector.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili echoed Ferrari’s sentiments, saying, “As the world’s top tourism destination, France is at the forefront of innovation. Our new competition will help find and recognize the next wave of tourism innovators and give them the support they need to truly transform our sector.”
The UN Tourism National Open Innovation Challenge is open to partnerships between French startups (headquartered in France) and large companies (either French or international) operating in the tourism sector. These collaborations must co-develop solutions that address pressing challenges in travel tech or tourism innovation. Eligible startups must already have a minimum viable product (MVP), prototype, or solution ready for scaling, while partner companies will provide resources, mentorship, and support for further development and implementation.
Natalia Bayona, UN Tourism Executive Director, commended France’s “Welcome to France” and “French Tech” initiatives, noting their role in supporting nearly 25,000 startups and generating over 1.1 million direct and indirect jobs. She added, “These initiatives set an exemplary standard for the rest of the world, nurturing successful startups and guiding them to scale by leveraging the strengths of their communities.”
Applications for the UN Tourism National Open Innovation Challenge are now open and will close at the end of March 2025. The initiative represents a crucial step in identifying innovative travel solutions, promoting sustainable tourism, and creating a more connected global tourism economy.
