Transforming the Agrotourism Sector Through Social Innovation and Digital Empowerment

In an increasingly digital world, accessibility is no longer just a buzzword; it is a fundamental right. With this guiding principle, DigAccessAgrotourism, a dynamic EU-funded project, is setting the stage to revolutionize the agrotourism sector by bolstering digital accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This innovative initiative brings together a consortium from six European countries—Cyprus, Poland, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Belgium—to create a more inclusive and accessible future.

The Mission: Digital Accessibility in Agrotourism

DigAccessAgrotourism focuses on two key avenues:

1. Empowering Agrotourism SMEs
   By tailoring capacity-building activities and offering specialised mentoring, the project aims to enhance the ability of social economy enterprises in agrotourism to integrate cutting-edge digital tools. This includes the use of the Internet of Things (IoT), data-driven solutions, and digital innovations that promote universal accessibility.
2. Supporting Enabling Organisations
   The project extends its impact by equipping organisations that support SMEs to better assist their members. This dual approach ensures a robust support network for agrotourism enterprises embarking on their digital transformation journey.

Key Activities

The project’s roadmap is both ambitious and impactful:

• Needs Identification and Mapping: A comprehensive assessment of the challenges and requirements of agrotourism organizations in achieving digital accessibility.
• Tailored Capacity Building: Training sessions and mentoring tailored to the unique needs of both agrotourism enterprises and their supporting organizations at national and transnational levels.
• Transnational Hackathon and Hybrid Demo Days: A global stage for innovators to present digital solutions and foster partnerships for ongoing implementation beyond the project’s duration.

These activities are not only designed to address immediate needs but also to embed long-term sustainability into the sector, ensuring that digital accessibility becomes an integral aspect of agrotourism.

Kick-Off in Lublin: A Promising Start

The journey began with an inspiring kick-off meeting hosted by OIC Poland Foundation on November 14–15, 2024, in Lublin, Poland. The gathering brought the consortium together to discuss project quality, dissemination strategies, and innovative approaches.

A highlight of the meeting was a capacity-building session showcasing Lublin Municipality’s digital tourism tool. This innovative solution allows visitors to explore historical landmarks through QR codes, VR, and AR technologies, providing a glimpse into the potential of integrating heritage with digital advances—a perfect synergy of history, innovation, and accessibility.

Conclusions: Paving the Way for Inclusive Tourism

DigAccessAgrotourism exemplifies the transformative power of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. By addressing the digital needs of agrotourism SMEs and their enabling organizations, the project lays a strong foundation for a more accessible and equitable tourism industry.

As the project progresses, its ripple effects promise to extend beyond the immediate participants, inspiring other sectors and regions to embrace digital accessibility. Together, we are not just boosting digital capacity; we are shaping a future where tourism is truly for everyone.