Planeterra, the world’s non-profit dedicated to uplifting communities through travel, has announced the launch of the second round of the Global Community Tourism Fund, a grant program that fosters entrepreneurship and innovation for community tourism enterprises worldwide. 

Through this fund, Planeterra provides small grants up to $3,000 USD, as well as community specific training and mentorship to help local entrepreneurs and communities scale up and improve existing experiences. The aim of this initiative is to create opportunities for local people to reap the benefits of tourism.

“Many communities have nowhere to turn to access capital or recovery support to help them be more competitive in the tourism market. Through the fund, we help support enterprises to reopen safely, make more positive impacts, and provide unique tourism experiences,” said Evie Ndhlovu, Manager, Global Community Tourism Network. “From new ramps for accessibility, to digging wells to provide safe water for communities and travellers, the Global Community Tourism fund is what communities need at a time like this to come back stronger and more impactful through tourism.”

To apply, community tourism enterprises must be approved members of the Global Community Tourism Network, a free-of-charge supportive group of organizations striving to achieve ambitious impact goals together. Planeterra provides the members of the network with access to online training, connection with peers around the globe and partnership and promotional opportunities.

During its first funding round in May 2022, the Global Community Tourism Fund awarded grants to seven businesses, including Osmose, a Cambodian NGO dedicated to environmental preservation and Red de Turismo Comunitario Jipijapa Wankavilka, an Ecuadorian network supporting tourism development in seven local communities.

“Implementing this project helped our rural community in the south of Manabí (Ecuador) to get promotional materials needed for people to get to know our territory and all its potential to be a tourist destination. This project allowed access to training for community representatives, which will improve their skills and will surely have a positive impact on their territories and local organizations,” said Adrián Sánchez Macías, president of Red de Turismo Comunitario Jipijapa Wankavilka. “From my community Pisloy, I would like to express our gratitude to Planeterra for supporting these small enterprises owned by rural families.”