CLUSTERATLAS4Med
The CLUSTERATLAS4Med project, funded under the Interreg NEXT MED Programme, aims to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of rural tourism SMEs across the Mediterranean region. The project will run for 36 months and involves a partnership of 8 full partners and 6 associated partners from 7 Mediterranean countries.
By establishing a transnational meta-cluster, the project will support digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, and international collaboration among key stakeholders. It follows a hub-and-spoke model, fostering knowledge exchange and best practices to drive the green and digital transition in rural tourism.
Project Objectives
The project focuses on fostering sustainable rural tourism by leveraging digital innovation and strengthening transnational collaboration. Key objectives include:
- Developing a Mediterranean meta-cluster to connect stakeholders in rural tourism, enhancing international cooperation and knowledge sharing.
- Supporting rural tourism SMEs by improving their digital skills, innovation capacity, and access to new markets.
- Enhancing sustainability and competitiveness through data-driven strategies, digitalization, and eco-friendly business practices.
- Strengthening policy frameworks and public-private collaboration for rural tourism, ensuring a long-term impact.
- Integrating digital tools and data analytics into tourism management to improve decision-making and service quality.
Role of the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS), Malta
The Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS), Malta, plays a crucial role in vocational education and training (VET) within CLUSTERATLAS4Med. Its main activities include:
- Developing and delivering training programs for rural tourism SMEs, focusing on digital transformation, innovation, and sustainability.
- Leading the ATLAS4MED Training Scheme, ensuring that the curriculum aligns with the needs of rural tourism operators and emerging industry trends.
- Contributing to the development of digital tools and methodologies, supporting SMEs in their transition towards smart tourism.
- Facilitating networking and capacity-building activities, strengthening collaboration among tourism stakeholders across the Mediterranean.
- Participating in the creation of a Rural Tourism Data Dashboard, helping SMEs make informed, data-driven business decisions.