Join the PHOENIX 4.0 Community

Access funding as an SME, mentor businesses as a trainer, or collaborate on groundbreaking projects—be part of the transformation of tourism now!

Apply Now

At PHOENIX 4.0, we understand the world of tourism SMEs is full of challenges and opportunities.  
That’s why we are here to blend Europe’s rich heritage with fresh ideas, helping small businesses thrive in a changing world. Tourism is all around us, but behind every experience is a story, a passion, and a hardworking team.

Join us, and let’s make tourism smarter, greener, and more resilient—together, with practical tools and real support.

Who Can Join PHOENIX 4.0?
PHOENIX 4.0 is designed for a diverse community of tourism professionals, creating a dynamic ecosystem of growth, learning, and innovation.

tourism + cross-sector picto

Tourism SMEs + Cross-sector SMEs

Tourism SMEs : hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, experience providers...
Cross-sector SMEs : culture, handicrafts, digital entertainment, agri food, social economy, textiles...
Innovate Services
Explore new business models and enhance visitor experiences.
Boost Digital Presence
Master digital marketing, improve online visibility, and connect with tech-savvy travelers.
Adopt Sustainable Practices
Implement eco-friendly solutions and contribute to greener tourism.
Strengthen Crisis Management
Develop strategies to adapt to market changes and unforeseen challenges.
Get Started
trainers + experts picto

Trainers & Experts

For professionals in digital marketing, sustainability consulting, tourism strategy, and crisis management who want to
Share Knowledge
Lead training sessions and workshops for tourism SMEs.
Provide Mentorship
Guide SMEs through tailored support and practical insights.
Design Best Practices
Contribute to the development of tools and frameworks that enhance resilience and innovation in tourism.
Engage in Collaboration
Connect with a network of experts and businesses to share ideas and solutions.
Get Started
collaborative  picto

Collaborative Projects

For universities, research institutes, and tourism organizations seeking to
Drive Research & Development
Partner with SMEs to test and validate innovative tourism solutions.
Promote Sustainability
Develop projects that align with EU sustainability goals and industry standards.
Support Data-Driven Initiatives
Contribute to the “Tourism of Tomorrow Data-Driven Destinations Hub” and other digital transformation projects.
Pilot New Concepts
Experiment with fresh approaches to tourism management and visitor engagement.
Get Started

Your Journey Starts Here
Whether you're a dynamic tourism SME looking to grow or an expert ready to share your know-how, PHOENIX 4.0 makes joining simple and rewarding. Check out the tailored onboarding paths below and discover how easy it is to become part of a vibrant community driving the future of European tourism.

Eligibility Check

Self-Assessments
Determine if your business meets the eligibility criteria for PHOENIX 4.0
Simple Application
Submit a quick and straightforward application to kickstart the process
Review & Feedback
Receive personalized guidance on your eligibility status and next steps

Access to Training & Funding

Capacity-Building Programs
Participate in tailored workshops and training sessions
Financial Support
Unlock grants and financial incentives to boost your growth
Mentorship Opportunities
Learn from industry experts in digital marketing, sustainability, and crisis management
Phoenix 4.0 Academy
Enhance your team's skills with practical and strategic insights

Adoption of Digital & Sustainable Practices

Personalized Roadmaps
Get bespoke strategies to transform your business digitally and sustainably
Digital Tools & Resources
Access technology solutions that improve efficiency and visibility
Sustainability Coaching
Implement eco-friendly practices that align with modern tourism trends
Ongoing Support
Benefit from continuous advice and resources to help maintain your progress

Certification & Training Opportunities

Get Certified
Gain recognition with PHOENIX 4.0’s expert certification program
Exclusive Training Modules
Access cutting-edge resources on digital transformation, sustainability, and resilience
Expand Your Reach
Connect with a network of SMEs eager to learn from your expertise

Expert Engagement & Mentorship

Lead Workshops & Webinars
Share your knowledge through interactive training sessions
One-on-One Mentorship
Guide SMEs with tailored strategies for digitalization and sustainability
Co-Create Innovative Solutions
Collaborate with SMEs to shape the future of European tourism
Be Part of a Larger Movement
Join a community driving meaningful change in the tourism industry

Train for Trainer session prepares tourism professionals to deliver targeted training to SMEs, focusing on resilience, sustainability, digital innovation, and inclusive practices across six key thematic areas.

FAQ for trainers

[The list of questions will be updated]

What is expected of me as a trainer in Phoenix 4.0?
You will contribute to the training of tourism SMEs by sharing your expertise through a short case presentations. You may also be featured in the Trainer Toolbox and Phoenix 4.0 platform with the information that you have provided in a follow-up form.

Can I invite SMEs to join the project?
Yes! You are welcome to reach out to your own network to help us recruit one or more of the 120 tourism and cross-sectoral SMEs we aim to engage in the project. If you know businesses that could benefit from training on resilience, sustainability, accessibility, or innovation, feel free to connect them with us or direct them to the official registration link.

How will I be selected to present during SME training sessions?
Each topic will include a maximum of 4 trainers per session. The responsible partner will coordinate and select presentations based on relevance and availability.

What is the Trainer Toolbox?
The Toolbox is a resource developed for each training topic. It includes:
- A short topic summary,
- Good practice examples,
- Trainer profiles and contributions.
It will support both trainers and SMEs during and after the training.

What should I prepare for my presentation?
You should prepare a 10–15 minute presentation focused on a practical case, method, or success story. Use visuals if helpful, but avoid overly theoretical content.

Can I use my own slides or materials?
Yes! You are encouraged to use your own materials, as long as they are concise, relevant, and can be shared with SMEs. Please avoid long texts or academic papers.

What support will I receive?
The responsible partner for your topic will help guide you, coordinate the session, and offer feedback. You will also have access to the Trainer Toolbox for inspiration.

Will the sessions be recorded?
Yes, training sessions may be recorded and shared with SMEs unable to attend live.

In which language should I present?
English is the working language of the project. If local SME sessions are delivered in national languages, the other languages can be used.

What is the timeline for my involvement?
You will be contacted soon to confirm your topic and contribution. The first round of SME sessions will take place in October 2025, the second in spring 2026.

Who do I contact if I have questions?
You can reach out to your topic coordinator or the Phoenix 4.0 team at iana.bilynets@ef.uni-lj.si.

Join us

Why Join PHOENIX 4.0?
Become part of an engaged European community of innovative SMEs and expert partners working together to shape the future of tourism. PHOENIX 4.0 offers tailored support, access to advanced technologies, and collaboration opportunities within a dynamic network. Together, we are building a more resilient, sustainable, and competitive tourism sector.