The partnership supports teams of young entrepreneurs to set up and part-own marketplaces in tourist locations and run them as sustainable businesses. Eight marketplaces have been established, helping around 240 people to offer their handcrafted souvenirs and products to tourists. Local women who traditionally specialise in handicrafts will especially benefit and their extensive local knowledge also provides the perfect opportunity to offer excursions to surrounding communities. Located near tourist sites, the marketplaces, handicrafts and excursions will act as a starting point to explore the rural culture. From cycling through a village to hiking, canoe trips, cooking local cuisine or learning a new skill such as basket weaving, the experiences are locally owned and offer an ideal opportunity to holidaymakers who want to experience the authenticity of the country and help local communities benefit directly from tourism.

Teams of two will manage the marketplaces and receive regular training and support in marketing and sales, financial and administrative management, customer care and stakeholder management. The products and excursions will also focus on leaving a light ecological footprint with improved recycling, waste management, water consumption and sourcing of organic food products also contributing to sustainable experiences for visitors.

The project has ended.