Tunisia Launches New Funding Mechanism for Young Tourism Entrepreneurs
The Ministry of Tourism has introduced a new funding mechanism for young entrepreneurs in the tourism sector, with a budget of 10 million dinars allocated to the creation of small businesses in alternative tourism activities.
Partnership and Objectives
This initiative was formalized through the signing of two partnership agreements between the Tunisian Solidarity Bank (BTS), the Tourism Trades Training Agency, and the Tunisian National Tourism Office (ONTT), under the supervision of Tourism Minister Sofiene Tekaya. The ministry aims to strengthen youth entrepreneurship, facilitate access to funding, and create new job opportunities, particularly in inland regions. Half of the mobilized funds will be reserved for projects based in these regions to support tailored tourism development.
Targeted Activities
The program specifically targets emerging alternative tourism activities, such as:
- Alternative accommodation
- Cultural tourism
- Ecological tourism
- Wellness tourism
- Adventure tourism
- Tourist transportation and guiding
Financing and Support
The announced objectives include:
- Financing 50 small tourist businesses led by higher education graduates as part of a pilot program focused on new alternative tourism models
- Financing 100 small businesses created by graduates of vocational training institutions under the Tourism Trades Training Agency In addition to funding, beneficiaries will receive support, including:
- Information sessions on funding mechanisms
- Assistance in developing business plans and feasibility studies
- Project monitoring after launch
Additional Initiatives
The ministry also plans to:
- Organize training sessions on creating tourist businesses
- Award financial rewards to the best small businesses in the sector
- Establish a monitoring committee to oversee the execution of agreements and support project leaders
This new funding mechanism is expected to contribute to the development of Tunisia's tourism sector, particularly in alternative tourism, and provide opportunities for young entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses.
