TUI Care Foundation Expands 'Futureshapers' Travel Sector Support Programme to Cambodia

The TUI Care Foundation, in partnership with development agency Target 8.9, has officially launched the TUI Futureshapers Cambodia project to bolster the resilience, competitiveness and sustainability of the country’s crucial tourism sector.

The collaborative initiative focuses on empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in tourism hubs such as Siem Reap. By bridging critical gaps in digital literacy and sustainability, the programme ensures local communities benefit directly from the travel industry. The project is implemented in close cooperation with the German Development Agency, GIZ.

Cambodia’s tourism sector is an essential economic engine, generating approximately 12% of Gross Domestic Product prior to the pandemic. However, many local tourism businesses struggle with limited access to modern digital tools and formal financing options.

The TUI Futureshapers Cambodia programme addresses these challenges by delivering targeted technical assistance and operational training. Through a series of specialised accelerator cohorts, at least 80 tourism SMEs, including accommodation providers, tour operators and handicraft businesses, benefit from tailored digital and sustainability assessments. Over 160 entrepreneurs participate in practical workshops covering search engine optimisation, digital marketing, and sustainable tourism certifications.

A critical component of the programme is preparing enterprises for capital investment. A dedicated cohort of 15 high-potential businesses receive bespoke one-to-one mentorship in financial planning and business valuation. This tailored preparation enables at least five businesses to successfully secure external funding through impact investments or blended finance models.

Environmental and social sustainability sit at the heart of this initiative's methodology. During workshops, participating businesses learn about international eco-certification standards to improve their green credentials. Entrepreneurs also gain cutting-edge skills in leveraging artificial intelligence to maximise their online booking visibility and reach global travellers.

The initiative also actively works to engage the next generation of Cambodian changemakers. Through sustainable tourism bootcamps and community events, the programme empowers at least 100 young people to advocate for eco-friendly travel options. These activities help diversify travel experiences beyond the famous temple of Angkor Wat, spreading economic benefits into rural areas.

TUI Futureshapers Cambodia is part of the global TUI Futureshapers programme that empowers young people to turn social challenges into entrepreneurial opportunities in tourism destinations including the UK, Spain, Tunisia, Egypt Greece, Albania, Morocco, Colombia, Jamaica, Cape Verde, Namibia and Tanzania.