The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KeveI) announced on Friday that the application deadline for its I-STARS grant scheme, designed specifically for tourism businesses, has been extended.
Interested enterprises now have the opportunity to submit their applications until 6 pm local time on Wednesday, December 6, 2023.
This grant, providing up to €5,600 per company, serves as a substantial boost for businesses operating within the tourism sector.
Importantly, this financial support is fully funded and does not fall under the de-minimis regulation.
According to the chamber, the initiative aims to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices among tourism-oriented businesses.
The integration of sustainability measures within these enterprises offers multiple advantages that impact both the businesses and the destinations they serve.
The chamber explained that more sustainable tourism businesses can benefit in several ways. This includes attracting higher-quality tourists, as travellers inclined toward sustainability often prefer destinations and businesses adhering to sustainable practices, thereby contributing to the economic growth of these locations.
Furthermore, businesses can experience improved performance and competitiveness, as sustainable operations tend to enhance efficiency and profits by reducing operating costs, attracting a more conscientious clientele, and fostering a competitive edge.
In addition, businesses embracing sustainability initiatives elevate their image among consumers increasingly attentive to environmental and social responsibilities, thereby improving their overall business image.
Moreover, sustainable practices actively reduce the environmental footprint of tourism activities by incorporating measures such as energy conservation, effective waste management, and the preservation of natural assets, thereby minimizing environmental impact.
The chamber also highlighted that businesses implementing sustainable practices actively contribute to local communities, providing benefits such as employment opportunities, educational support, and support for local projects, thus advancing corporate social responsibility.
Applicants also stand to benefit from a range of services offered by the chamber’s specialized sustainability consultants, covering various aspects of sustainable business operations.
This extension provides a unique opportunity for Cyprus’s tourism sector to embrace sustainability while enjoying the financial aid and expert guidance provided by the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry.