European Union to fund tourism startups to accelerate digital and green transition

ST3ER, a Europe-wide programme, aims to support projects that seek to digitally transform the tourism sector while promoting sustainability. The initiative offers up to €30,000 to startups accelerating their digital transition. In Portugal, UPTEC – Science and Technology Park of the University of Porto leads the local coordination of the initiative.

Co-funded by the European Union, ST3ER focuses on strengthening tourism SMEs and accelerating the digital and green transition, helping build more connected and resilient tourism networks across Europe.

This six-month acceleration programme can be used to cover the costs of developing and implementing digital technologies. In addition to financial support, selected startups will benefit from tailored mentoring, online training modules, and participation in international events.

Eligible proposals must include at least one digital practice, such as Artificial Intelligence, Augmented or Virtual Reality, Big Data, Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Internet of Things, or other tourism-related technologies.

In its first call, ST3ER selected 46 projects across Europe, including 13 from Portugal. Now, the programme is looking for new innovative projects with the potential to shape the future of tourism.

Applications are open until 10 June 2025, and only startups with up to ten employees and less than seven years of activity are eligible to apply.