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 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 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.
Get equipped with practical tools and knowledge to refine your business model, strengthen your value proposition, and grow your business with purpose.
Dedicated mentoring & coaching
Receive one-on-one support from experienced mentors and coaches who will help you navigate challenges and make informed decisions as you get your solution off the ground.
Direct financial support
As part of the ETENA Incubator, your team will receive 500 Euros per month to implement your MVP and make your solution ready for the market.
Workstations in Zamalek
Work with your team from a fully-equipped, serene space at the enpact hub in Zamalek. It will be your perfect spot to also meet with peers and experts, exchange ideas and stay inspired.
Meetups & networking events
Join regular gatherings to expand your network by connecting with fellow entrepreneurs, tourism experts, and potential partners.
ETENA Incubator’s Timeline
12 February 2025
Call for applications launches
24 February 2025
Applications close. Selection process starts
March 2026
Incubator starts (4 teams)
September 2026
Demo Day
How does it work?
Take a look through the steps to find out what to expect from the ETENA Incubator and how to prepare.
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.
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.
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 idea as you apply.
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
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.
Who can apply for the ETENA Incubator?
We’re on the lookout for teams of innovative entrepreneurs and startups that:
consist of three members (including the team leader).
are gender-balanced or women-led.
have an innovative idea for rural tourism in Egypt.
graduated or currently enrolled in an Egyptian or internationally recognised university.
To qualify for the programme’s second phase — the ETENA Incubator – your team should submit an idea that:
has been prototyped in a medium or high-fidelity version,
is tackling the announced focus challenge directly or indirectly,
is innovative or with disruptive characteristics that do not exist in the market,
has the potential to be scaled up and marketed commercially,
has the potential to generate social and economic impact within local communities.
In order to be selected for this 6-month phase, your team members must fulfil all the eligibility criteria listed above. They should also:
legally reside in Egypt (including permission to gainful employment).
have an entrepreneurial mindset.
be available to commit to developing and commercialising their solution.
Teams that foster diversity and aim to create sustainable social, economic and/or ecological impact through their solutions are given priority in the selection process. This priority aligns with our dedicated focus on promoting inclusion, gender equality and sustainable practices.
If your application is shortlisted, we will be reaching out to schedule an interview. The email will notify you if your application is accepted or share feedback in case we are unable to accommodate you in the programme. Please make sure to also regularly check your spam.
You can always email us at shc@enpact.org to receive support with your application within 24 hours of your request. Please note that this is the only official support channel for the ETENA programme and the only way to guarantee a timely response.
Applications closed
Program partners
The programme was developed and is being implemented by enpact Stiftung. It is powered and supported by TUI Care Foundation, within the framework of TUI Care Foundation’s Empowering Communities Initiative.
