Amadeus supports SME digitisation and sustainability efforts with second Travel4Impact initiative

The European GDS and travel technology giant is working with Spanish IE University to offer UK companies mentoring and networking opportunities

The second edition of Amadeus and IE University’s Travel4Impact initiative to support small to medium sized business across Europe has been launched.

The partners said they hope the project will support SME enterprises “in the critical role they play in the ongoing renewal of travel and tourism”. 

The Travel4Impact network supports SMEs which focus on digitalisation and sustainability as part of their strategy. 

The initiative is part of Amadeus’ Corporate Social Responsibility strategy and is 100% subsidised for SMEs and includes training, mentoring, and networking opportunities.  

In total 25 European tourism SMEs will be selected and invited to participate in the Launchpad phase. 

Concepción Galdón, head of the center for social innovation and sustainability at IE University, said: 

“During the Launchpad, participants will benefit, for a period of approximately three months, from networking opportunities, mentoring and training by travel and tourism industry leaders, as well as experts in sustainability, business management and innovation”.

The long-term goal of Travel4Impact is the creation of a global network. The project started in 2021 in Spain and is designed to evolve into an international community.

Clare de Bono, Amadeus country manager UK and associate director front office solutions, said: 

“SMEs play a critical role in the ongoing renewal of the travel industry and Amadeus is working with IE University to offer a unique programme to support their current and future success. 

“We launched this programme – which is open to both Amadeus customers and others - in Spain in 2021, and following its success, I’m delighted to say it’s the turn of UK SMEs to benefit.

“The participants will receive training from tourism industry leaders and business and sustainability experts, as well as the opportunity for sharing knowledge with other participants, and networking. 

“Successful applicants will become part of a community of SMEs sponsored by Amadeus and IE University. It’s encouraging to report that 85% of participants in the launch phase reported that their business had better prospects thanks to taking part in the initiative. 

“In the UK we are working with the Institute of Travel and Tourism as well as the Business Travel Association to help recruit SMEs into the free of charge programme.”

SMEs who are interested in joining the Travel4Impact project must complete this form before July 31. SMEs will find all the information needed in the Travel4Impact webpage.