The second call for the Voucher Scheme of the European COASTOUR project has been launched, aimed at Italian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) operating in the rural coastal tourism sector.
This initiative, co-funded by the European Commission, offers funding of up to 9,000 euros to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of participating companies.

COASTOUR aims to strengthen the competitiveness, resilience and sustainability of tourism companies, promote awareness and skills development in the field of sustainability, and improve the efficiency of existing sustainability programmes at a European level.

The call is aimed at Italian MSMEs in the tourism sector, with priority given to those located in rural coastal areas. Among the eligible business categories are:

• hotels and accommodation,
• camping grounds and recreational vehicle parks,
• restaurants and mobile food service activities,
• rental and leasing of motor vehicles,
• sports and recreational activities,
• libraries, museums and cultural activities,
• travel agencies and tour operators,
• sea and coastal passenger water transport.

The funding covers various expenses and activities, including:

• preparation and auditing for sustainability certifications (e.g. EU Ecolabel, EMAS);
• training and skills development for SMEs on topics related to the green and digital transition;
• participation in events relevant to sustainable and digital tourism;
• support for patent processes, feasibility studies and pilot tests;
• purchase and use of IT equipment for monitoring sustainability impact.

To participate, you must submit your application online by 28 August 2024 at 17:00 CET. Funded activities must be implemented by 30 May 2025.

To present this second call, a dedicated webinar has been organised, which will be held online on Friday 5 July at 10:00. To participate, you must register via the registration link.

The official call can be consulted on the following page, dedicated to the COASTOUR project.

For further information, please contact: een1@confindustria.lombardia.it.