world of travel with sustainable and local solutions.“
Since its debut in 2019 applications have been received from more than 50 countries around the world. Winners have included the WeView platform and Frutas y Verduras, a fresh produce campaign from Mexico. In 2020, Get Up and Go Colombia won the competition with a programme that supports populations living in areas under armed conflict with tourism projects. The jury also honoured Change Through Traveling, an initiative from Brazil.
In terms of content the competition is based on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. The main focus is on Quality Education, Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. With 2030 in mind, the spotlight is especially on strategies for promoting sustainable tourism and creating jobs while taking local cultures and products into account.
The awards include prizes and money and are presented in the categories Launch Track, for ideas that have yet to be implemented, and Growth Track, for already existing companies that are still on course for growth. The jury is made up of representatives from ITB Berlin, Travel Massive, HNEE, the TUI Care Foundation, UNWTO and the Social Innovation Academy (SINA). In 2021 their focus is above all on ideas and concepts for local solutions during the coronavirus pandemic. The final selection will take place in September, when the winners will receive their prizes at a virtual awards ceremony.
ITB Berlin has a long tradition of supporting sustainable tourism. Thus, the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show is a long-standing supporter of socially responsible tourism, which includes environmental protection and campaigning for the rights of women, children and the LGBT+ community.