Sommet Education Foundation empowers next-generation change-makers through UN Tourism Social Innovation Challenge

The initiative is powered by strategic partners: Sommet Education Foundation as the education partner, the non-for-profit entity from Sommet Education, world leader in hospitality education, with the involvement of its hospitality school, Les Roches.

A global call for bold solutions

The UN Tourism Social Innovation Challenge seeks bold, tech-driven and people-centred solutions across three categories:

• Category 1: Community-Based Tourism

Empower communities by involving them in tourism value chains, cultural preservation, and local entrepreneurship.

• Category 2: Inclusivity & Accessibility

Enhance travel for people with disabilities, seniors, and those with specific access needs through universal design and inclusive services.

• Category 3: Green Projects

Promote technologies and practices that reduce the environmental impact of tourism, support circular economy models, and help manage mass tourism through smart solutions.

Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of UN Tourism, said: “Innovation is not just about technology – it’s about empowering people, preserving our planet, and shaping a more inclusive and resilient future for global tourism. Globally, social enterprises contribute over 5% of GDP in many countries and employ millions. They focus on tackling inequality, environmental sustainability, and community development. This challenge is a call to action for solutions that place social innovation and equality at the heart of tourism.”

Education as the engine of transformation

As education partner, Sommet Education Foundation will provide scholarships that empower individuals from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds. Winners of the challenge’s scholarships will undertake higher education programs at Les Roches to gain the skills and knowledge needed to develop their bold ideas into impactful and innovative products and services.

Anouck Weiss, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of Sommet Education Foundation, commented: “We are committed to empowering the next generation of change-makers through access to world-class hospitality education. By supporting the Social Innovation Challenge, we aim to not only foster inclusive and sustainable tourism – but also to provide the skills and knowledge needed to shape bold ideas into innovative products and services.”

“These scholarships will enable individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to enter prestigious institutions like Les Roches, equipping them with the tools to drive meaningful social impact. Education is the engine of transformation. We are nurturing talent that will lead tourism into a more resilient, equitable, and regenerative future,” she explained.

Les Roches: Shaping innovative hospitality leaders

Les Roches, as part of the Sommet Education network, will host selected entrepreneurs at its Marbella campus. Winners will receive up to six full scholarships for advanced hospitality programs lasting 9-12 months, providing both academic excellence and direct exposure to global industry leaders.

Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches, added: “Tourism has the power to transform societies, elevate communities, and inspire global progress when anchored in inclusivity and sustainability. At Les Roches, we believe education is the spark that turns ideas into movements and equips hospitality leaders to shape the future. By supporting the Social Innovation Challenge alongside the Sommet Education Foundation and UN Tourism, we are helping accelerate solutions that can deliver real impact for communities and the planet.”

How to apply? 

Applications will close 8th December 2025.

Selected finalists will gain access to a wide range of strategic benefits, including:

• Up to 6 full scholarships financed by Sommet Education Foundation for higher education programs from 9 to 12 months in hospitality education and international hotel management delivered at Les Roches campus in Marbella, Spain.
• The opportunity to pitch at the UN Tourism Demo Day, and connection to a global network of 90+ investors and leading tourism corporations in over 160 countries.
• Finalists personalized mentorship through the UN Tourism Innovation Network.
• Exclusive Plug and Play benefits such as access to the Silicon Valley Summit.
• Scholarships offered by the UN Tourism Online Academy.