Empowering entrepreneurs and the future shapers of rural tourism in Egypt
Launched by TUI Care Foundation and enpact, the Empowering Tourism Ecosystems in North Africa (ETENA) programme focuses on supporting 100 aspiring entrepreneurs and 10 startup founders in tourism and tourism supply chains across Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco, providing them with tailored business development support and financial backing opportunities through four phases of key activities: Idea Marathon, 2-month Pre-incubator, 6-month Incubator, and a regional 3-month Accelerator.
In its incubation phase, the ETENA programme aims to support 4 teams of entrepreneurs and startups in developing digital solutions for rural tourism in Egypt. Over 6 months, each team will receive comprehensive business training, dedicated mentoring, direct financial support of 500 Euros per month, and workstations at the enpact hub in Zamalek, along with access to a global network of tourism experts.
The purpose of the ETENA Incubator is to support its participating teams in developing MVPs of their tourism solutions and become ready for the market to enhance rural tourist experiences, promote local businesses, drive job creation and by extension, empower local communities and create inclusive social impact.
4 prototypes - One challenge
Community-Centric & Inclusive Rural Tourism Innovations — Develop digital solutions that promote authentic, inclusive, and sustainable travel in Egypt’s rural areas. Your innovation can strengthen connections between travellers and locals; empower rural communities, foster accessibility, spotlight cultural and natural heritage, and support local businesses, ensuring tourism revenue supports livelihoods.
The challenges were identified by relevant experts and stakeholders in the Egyptian travel and tourism sector.
Download this document for more details about the challenge and eligibility criteria for your solution.
The call for applications is now closed.
How does it work?
Take a look through the steps to find out what to expect from the ETENA Incubator and how to prepare.
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Join the ETENA network
By signing up for the ETENA programme’s network, you will receive industry insights, invitations to regular networking events, and access to a global network of regional and international experts.
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Review the challenges and criteria
Read the announced challenges in the call for ideas carefully, and review the eligibility criteria and requirements. We advise downloading this document for easy reference.
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Prepare the needed information
We advise you to go through the application form once before applying. You will need to prepare a scan of your national ID, your CV/Resume, and a brief of your digital idea as you apply.
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Fill out the application form
Complete the application form; please note that this is the only way for us to be able to consider your application, as we don’t accept submissions by e-mail or other formats. If you need support with filling in the form, please feel free to reach out to shc@enpact.org
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Check your e-mail
You will receive an e-mail with the status of your application within three weeks. The e-mail will notify you if you are shortlisted, so that you can prepare for a quick interview, or share feedback in case we are unable to accommodate you in the programme. Please make sure to also regularly check spam.
Meet the ETENA Incubator Teams
Daffa by Ahmed Bastawi
An AI-powered boat rental app that personalises recommendations, lets users preview boats in 3D, optimises pricing and routes, and includes smart safety features and trip planners for various activities.
Dayma by Farah Kamel
Dayma is an Egypt-based environmental education and eco-tourism enterprise. Operating across Egypt’s deserts and coasts, Dayma designs transformational journeys that build environmental literacy, regenerative thinking, and a deep appreciation for biodiversity and indigenous knowledge.
MetNativ by Hend Mostafa
Met Native is a digital platform for rural tourism in Egypt, connecting tourists with authentic local experiences, eco-lodging, and hands-on workshops with artisans. The platform supports sustainable tourism and highlights local products.
Sandal by Mohamed Yehia
Sandal is a community-driven tourism app that curates immersive cultural experiences in Egypt’s overlooked rural towns—connecting travellers with local storytellers, artisans, and hidden heritage, while ensuring that tourism revenue supports the communities themselves.
