types of tourism entrepreneurship

Tourism Entrepreneurship: Meaning, Characteristics & Examples – In the bustling world of travel and exploration, there exists a special breed of individuals who possess a unique blend of vision, innovation, and business acumen. They are the tourism entrepreneurs , creators, and managers of ventures that shape the experiences of travelers while driving economic growth within the tourism industry. But what exactly is tourism entrepreneurship?

This article delves into the meaning, characteristics, and examples of this fascinating field. From identifying opportunities to crafting unforgettable experiences, these entrepreneurs are the driving force behind the development of sustainable tourism ventures. Join us on a journey to explore the world of tourism entrepreneurship and discover the traits that make it a vibrant and essential component of the global travel landscape.

What Is Tourism Entrepreneurship?

Tourism entrepreneurship is an exciting realm where individuals with a passion for travel and a knack for business come together to create and manage ventures within the tourism industry. It involves identifying opportunities and developing innovative ideas to meet the needs and desires of travelers. Think of it as weaving together the threads of adventure, hospitality, and entrepreneurship to craft unique experiences.

Entrepreneurs in the tourism industry are trailblazers who succeed in their endeavors, whether they are launching a boutique hotel that offers distinctive travel experiences or creating an eco-tourism company that combines adventure with environmental protection. They can create deals that stand out from the competition since they have a solid understanding of the shifting demands and preferences of visitors.

Tourism Entrepreneurship is distinguished by its capacity to identify unrealized potential and capitalize on changing trends. Entrepreneurs that are successful concentrate on innovation, offering distinctive services, creating cutting-edge technology, and creating immersive experiences that make an impression on visitors. They make use of experiential tourism trends like farm-to-table food and eco-friendly activities to connect tourists with local culture and encourage sustainable practices.

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of tourist entrepreneurship because entrepreneurs understand the need of preserving the environment, cultural heritage, and local communities. For instance, a wildlife refuge that prioritizes teaching and conservation boosts environmental awareness while boosting the local economy.

Read – Franchise Business in Entrepreneurship

Tourism Entrepreneurship Definitions

Tourism entrepreneurship is the process of identifying, evaluating, and exploiting opportunities to create new tourism businesses or to introduce new products, services, or practices into existing tourism businesses.  – Sheldon (2017)

Tourism entrepreneurship is the process of creating, organizing, and managing a new tourism venture to turn a profit.  – Aquino et al (2019)

Tourism entrepreneurship is the process of identifying and exploiting opportunities to create new tourism products, services, or experiences that meet the needs of tourists and create value for stakeholders. – Porter (2018)

Tourism entrepreneurship is the process of creating and managing new tourism businesses that are innovative, sustainable, and socially responsible.  – Mottiar (2018)

The process of developing new tourist enterprises that are founded on a thorough grasp of the local context and that contribute to the sustainable growth of the destination is known as tourism entrepreneurship. – Peredo & Wurzelmann (2015)

Tourism entrepreneurship is the process of creating new tourism businesses that are motivated by a desire to make a difference in the world.  – McCarthy (2008)

The process of starting new tourist enterprises that are motivated by a love of travel and a dedication to excellence is known as tourism entrepreneurship. – Jamal & Getz (1995)

Tourism entrepreneurship is the process of creating new tourism businesses that are based on a deep understanding of the tourism market and that can successfully compete in the global marketplace.   –  Crouch (2011)

tourist entrepreneurship is the process of establishing new tourist enterprises that can support the county’s social, economic, and environmental sustainability. – UNWTO (2010)

Read – Start a Business in Europe

Characteristics of Tourism Entrepreneurship

Innovation is a fundamental characteristic of tourism entrepreneurship. Successful tourism entrepreneurs constantly seek to differentiate themselves by introducing new and unique ideas, products, or services into the tourism market. For instance, consider the emergence of glamping (luxury camping) as an innovative concept within the tourism industry. By combining the thrill of outdoor adventure with the comfort and luxury of high-quality accommodation, glamping entrepreneurs have created a distinct niche that attracts travelers seeking a unique and memorable experience.

Market Sensitivity

Tourism entrepreneurs possess a keen awareness of market trends, consumer preferences, and evolving demands. They stay attuned to the changing needs of travelers and adjust their offerings accordingly. An excellent example of market sensitivity is the rise of eco-tourism ventures. Entrepreneurs recognized the growing demand for sustainable travel experiences and developed businesses that offer environmentally friendly activities and accommodations, such as wildlife conservation tours or eco-lodges.

Read – Large Company Entrepreneurship

Risk-Taking

Tourism entrepreneurship inherently involves taking calculated risks. Entrepreneurs are willing to step outside their comfort zones, invest their resources, and navigate uncertainties to pursue their ventures. An illustrative example is the launch of adventure tourism businesses in remote and challenging locations. These entrepreneurs take the risk of establishing operations in unexplored territories, offering activities like mountaineering, extreme sports, or wilderness expeditions, knowing that the thrill-seeking segment of tourists will seek out these unique and adventurous experiences.

Adaptability

The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and seize emerging opportunities is a crucial characteristic of successful tourism entrepreneurs. They understand that the tourism industry is dynamic, influenced by factors like technology advancements, global events, or shifting consumer behaviors. A prime example is the adaptation of traditional tour operators to the digital age. Entrepreneurs have embraced online platforms and booking systems, enabling them to reach a wider audience, provide seamless customer experiences, and respond swiftly to market changes.

Read – Cultural Entrepreneurship

Social Responsibility

Tourism entrepreneurship places a significant emphasis on social responsibility. Entrepreneurs strive to create businesses that not only generate economic benefits but also contribute positively to local communities, cultures, and environments. For instance, community-based tourism initiatives empower residents by involving them in tourism activities, preserving their cultural heritage, and sharing economic benefits. By doing so, entrepreneurs foster sustainable development and create a sense of pride and ownership among the local population.

Collaboration and Networking

Tourism entrepreneurs understand the value of collaboration and networking. They actively engage with stakeholders, including other entrepreneurs, industry professionals, local communities, and government agencies. By building strong partnerships, entrepreneurs can access resources, share knowledge, and create synergistic opportunities. An example is the establishment of destination marketing organizations (DMOs) where entrepreneurs collaborate and local authorities to collectively promote the destination and attract a larger volume of visitors.

Passion and Vision

Passion and a clear vision are vital driving forces for tourism entrepreneurs. They possess a deep love for travel and a genuine desire to make a difference in the industry. Entrepreneurs with a vision create businesses that align with their passions, ensuring they stay motivated and committed to their goals. For instance, an entrepreneur passionate about culinary arts may establish a food tour company that showcases authentic local cuisine, supports local eateries, and promotes culinary traditions to international visitors.

Read – Modern Entrepreneurship

Types of Tourism Entrepreneurship

Accommodation and hospitality.

This type of tourism entrepreneurship involves the establishment and management of accommodation facilities such as hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. Entrepreneurs in this field focus on providing comfortable and enjoyable lodging experiences for tourists. For example, an entrepreneur in the tourism industry may launch a boutique hotel. It offers specialized services, stylish décor, and innovative amenities to appeal to discriminating customers seeking a premium and memorable stay.

Food and Beverage

Food and beverage entrepreneurship in tourism revolves around creating dining experiences for travelers. Entrepreneurs in this domain establish restaurants, cafes, food trucks, or specialty food businesses that cater to the culinary preferences of tourists. They aim to offer delicious and diverse cuisine options, ranging from local delicacies to international flavors. An example is an entrepreneur who opens a seafood restaurant in a coastal destination, serving freshly caught seafood dishes to tourists who crave an authentic taste of the local marine cuisine.

Read – Corporate Partnerships

Adventure and Outdoor Recreation

Adventure and outdoor recreation tourism entrepreneurship focus on providing exciting and adventurous activities for travelers seeking thrilling experiences. Entrepreneurs in this field create ventures such as adventure tour companies, water sports centers, hiking, and trekking expeditions, or wildlife safaris. They cater to the interests of adventure enthusiasts by offering activities like white-water rafting, zip-lining, mountain biking, or wildlife encounters. For instance, an entrepreneur may establish a company that offers guided rock climbing trips in picturesque natural landscapes, providing adrenaline-pumping experiences for adventurous travelers.

Cultural and Heritage

Cultural and heritage tourism entrepreneurship centers around showcasing the local culture, traditions, and historical attractions of a destination. Entrepreneurs in this field create businesses such as guided heritage tours, cultural performances, museums, art galleries, or craft workshops. They aim to preserve and promote the cultural identity of a place while providing educational and enriching experiences for visitors. For example, an entrepreneur may establish a cultural center that offers interactive workshops on traditional arts and crafts, allowing tourists to engage with the local culture and learn traditional craftsmanship.

Read – Modern Business

Sustainable and Ecotourism

Sustainable and ecotourism entrepreneurship focuses on developing businesses that prioritize environmental conservation and sustainable practices. Entrepreneurs in this realm establish eco-lodges, nature-based tour operators, wildlife conservation initiatives, or sustainable transportation services. They aim to minimize the negative impact on the environment while promoting nature appreciation and conservation. An example is an entrepreneur who starts an eco-tour company offering guided hikes in protected areas, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural habitats and educating tourists about sustainable practices.

Specialized and Niche Tourism

Specialized and niche tourism entrepreneurship involves catering to specific interests, hobbies, or target markets within the tourism industry. Entrepreneurs in this category create ventures such as wellness retreats, wine and culinary tours, photography expeditions, adventure sports, or cultural festivals. They focus on providing tailored experiences and catering to the unique needs and preferences of niche segments. For instance, an entrepreneur may establish a company that offers guided bird-watching tours for bird enthusiasts, providing expert guides, specialized equipment, and access to prime bird-watching locations.

Read – C an Anyone Be an Entrepreneur

Popular Examples of Tourism Entrepreneurship

Founded in 2008, Airbnb is a prime example of tourism entrepreneurship. It revolutionized the accommodation sector by providing a platform for homeowners to rent out their properties to travelers. This innovative concept enabled individuals to become tourism entrepreneurs by turning their spare rooms or vacant properties into profitable accommodations. Airbnb disrupted the traditional hotel industry and opened up new opportunities for individuals to participate in the tourism economy.

G Adventures

G Adventures is a renowned adventure travel company that offers small group tours to destinations worldwide. Founded in 1990, it exemplifies tourism entrepreneurship in the adventure and outdoor recreation sector. The company was started by Bruce Poon Tip to provide authentic and sustainable travel experiences. G Adventures focuses on responsible tourism practices, supports local communities, and offers unique adventure itineraries, appealing to travelers seeking immersive and socially responsible experiences.

Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet is a well-known travel guidebook publisher that has been a trusted source of travel information for over four decades. Founded in 1973 by Tony Wheeler and his wife Maureen, it reflects tourism entrepreneurship in the publishing industry. Their travel guides provide comprehensive information, tips, and recommendations for travelers, enabling them to explore destinations independently. The secret to Lonely Planet’s success is its capability to satisfy the demands of curiosity. Also, daring visitors looking for real-world encounters.

Read – Businessman vs Entrepreneur

Viator is an online travel agency. They provide a large choice of tours, experiences, and activities in places all over the world. Rod Cuthbert launched it in 1995, and it is now a major participant in the tours and activities industry. Viator connects travelers with local tour operators, allowing them to book unique experiences conveniently. This platform showcases the entrepreneurial spirit by bringing together various tourism service providers and offering curated experiences for tourists.

Rick Steves’ Europe

Rick Steves, an American travel writer and television personality, is an example of an individual entrepreneur who has made significant contributions to tourism entrepreneurship. He has built a brand focused on European travel, sharing his expertise through guidebooks, television shows, and tours. Rick Steves’ Europe provides valuable insights, cultural information, and practical advice to travelers interested in exploring Europe independently. His entrepreneurial journey demonstrates how a passion for travel can be turned into a successful tourism enterprise.

The process of planning, establishing, and running new businesses within the tourist sector is referred to as tourism entrepreneurship . It is essential for promoting innovation, economic expansion, and job creation. tourism entrepreneurs display traits like innovation, flexibility, and a love for their business. They aid in the creation of distinctive tourism goods, services, and experiences through their entrepreneurial initiatives, which meet the changing demands of tourists.

The examples of Airbnb, G Adventures, Lonely Planet, Viator, and Rick Steves’ Europe showcase the diverse range of entrepreneurial ventures within the tourism sector. Ultimately, tourism entrepreneurship not only benefits individuals and businesses but also contributes to the overall sustainability and vibrancy of the tourism industry.

FAQs about Tourism Entrepreneurship

Why is entrepreneurship important in tourism.

Entrepreneurship is important in tourism as it drives innovation. Also, it boosts economic growth, and produces employment opportunities, leading to a vibrant and passionate tourism industry.

How can you relate entrepreneurship to tourism?

Entrepreneurship in tourism is evident through the creation of new businesses, innovative products, and unique experiences that cater to the evolving needs and desires of travelers.

What are the qualities of a tourism entrepreneur?

Qualities of a successful tourism entrepreneur include creativity, adaptability, passion for the industry, strong business acumen, a customer-centric mindset, and a willingness to take calculated risks.

What are the entrepreneurial opportunities in tourism?

Entrepreneurial opportunities in tourism encompass various areas such as starting accommodation establishments, developing niche tours and activities, leveraging technology for online booking platforms, and promoting sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

Why is entrepreneurship important in hospitality and tourism?

Entrepreneurship plays a vital role in hospitality and tourism by driving competitiveness, spurring the development of new hospitality ventures, enhancing guest experiences through innovative services, and contributing to the overall growth and success of the industry.

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Tourism Entrepreneurship: Importance and Types

Tourism Entrepreneurship: Importance and Types : Tourism Entrepreneurship can be defined as the business involving development and controlling a tourist company. No one can deny that tourism has grown significantly over the past few years. The curiosity among people to visit new places is increasing in most countries worldwide. Entrepreneurship has evolved greatly in the past few years, and the tourist industry isn’t an exception.

Also See: Corporate Entrepreneurship

Many important activities need to be performed to succeed as a tourism entrepreneur. People used to believe that it is pretty easy to generate huge profits as a travel entrepreneur, but the reality is beyond what anyone thinks. This post will talk about tourism entrepreneurship with a proper explanation.

What is the importance of entrepreneurship in tourism?

We can’t deny that tourism is a highly complex industry considered a distinct field. However, there are tremendous opportunities offered to entrepreneurs for developing businesses. They can create a great source of income by boosting their working capacity. We all know entrepreneurs think differently when compared with normal people.

The same goes for the tourism industry, where entrepreneurship can play a significant role, considering the present competition. Even the government of many nations has offered multiple benefits to the new entrepreneurs looking to establish a new business in the tourism industry. So, we want to suggest here that entrepreneurship is critical for developing the tourist.

Also See: Barriers to Entrepreneurship

There are tremendous new ideas presented by entrepreneurs that can be extremely useful in the long run. For e.g., companies started a commercial expedition to Mount Everest that significantly boosted Nepal’s economy. You can find many other examples where entrepreneurs completely revolutionized the tourist industry.

What are the major types of tourism entrepreneurship?

Tourism entrepreneurship is mainly classified into four different categories. Although there are many other options, we will mention the major ones here.

• Tour Operators

A tour operator combines various travel components like hotels, transportation, and other similar things to provide a single package to the customers.

• Travel Agents

A travel agent can be defined as an individual who makes travel arrangements for clients, including groups, corporations, and individuals. They work individually rather than a company that is commonly the case with tour operators.

Also See: Rural Entrepreneurship

• Transport Operators

These are the ones who offer formal transport solutions to the tourists. It can be giving rental homes or arranging tickets for their travel.

Another prominent type of tourism entrepreneurship is guiding the other individuals for travelling and other similar prospects. It is a popular work performed by ticketing agents, holiday sellers, etc.

Are there enough opportunities in the tourism sector?

If you talk about the present era, there are tremendous opportunities offered by the tourism industry for young entrepreneurs. You can easily find potential in various markets for business events, meetings, and traveling. There are many amazing things entrepreneurs can do to create a strong business. Tourism is an important activity that boosts a country’s economy, considering the plethora of opportunities provided by it. However, the resources need to be acquired and managed in a proper manner.

Also See: Difference Between Intrapreneur and Entrepreneur

So it was all about tourism entrepreneurship, its importance and examples.

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Sustainability Leaders United

How to succeed as sustainability entrepreneur in tourism: 14 characteristics of successful entrepreneurs.

Most tourism businesses are small or medium-sized, whose success often depends on the leadership of an entrepreneurial professional (often the business owner) who takes risks and has the courage to try new solutions to growing problems, such as unsustainable supply chains or outdated business practices.

Without the vision and innovative ideas of entrepreneurs, sustainable tourism examples and success stories would be rare, probably non-existent. But how to succeed as a sustainable tourism entrepreneur? Which factors determine entrepreneurial success?

We asked our virtual expert panel for advice on the key success factors for sustainability entrepreneurship in tourism . Reading through the many answers, we identified 14 common characteristics linked to successful sustainable tourism entrepreneurship.

Tip: Through our Information Scout service we can help you gain and maintain competitive advantage by providing overviews on latest thinking and research on topics linked to the sustainability of tourism businesses and destinations.

14 characteristics of successful sustainability entrepreneurs in tourism

Ordered by importance (number of mentions), here the success factors our panel associates with entrepreneurial success linked to tourism and sustainability.

1 Passion, drive and determination

Succeeding as entrepreneur dedicated to sustainability is hard work and no easy task. Hardly surprising thus that passion drive and determination is what makes successful sustainability entrepreneurs stand out, in the eyes of our panel. Such deep commitment is often triggered by specific events or experiences – “wake up moments”, and fueled by a strong belief in the need to do the right thing, even if it goes against market forces and business trends.

Focus is what helps entrepreneurs channel their passion and put ideas and vision into practice, and which gets them through difficult time. It is this unwavering grit, persistence and resilience which builds entrepreneurial capacity to press for change in tourism, which is not quick.

2 Clear vision and strategy

Clearly, passion alone won’t make a successful business. A clear vision, together with a good strategic plan of how to implement your idea or tell your story is the second most important factor for entrepreneurial success, according to the panel. Having this clear vision is important because entrepreneurs inevitably face many obstacles and things they have to deal with in the short-term – management decisions which can take up all of their time.

Successful entrepreneurs always have the long-term strategy and desired outcomes present: they are able to visualize what “success” will mean. In tourism sustainability, success might be in the form of intangible benefits enjoyed over long time periods.

3 Social capital: strong networks in local community

The third key characteristic of successful sustainable tourism entrepreneurs is their ability to network and connect with their local community. Caring for your destination and actively collaborating in restoring, protecting and maintaining it isn’t just “the right thing to do”. It is also a smart business strategy, since in tourism the product/experience depends on the state of the destination as a whole.

Especially in developing countries, sustainable tourism and ecotourism entrepreneurs are often foreigners. In this case, getting involved with the locals and building up social capital can be a key factor for your business success, in that it helps you build capacity, supply chains, and create the goodwill you need for your guests to be able to enjoy the rich, authentic experiences you have promised.

Cooperative actions across the destination and the resulting relationships and backup network are what for many tourism entrepreneurs will be what keeps them afloat when crisis hits.

4 Business plan which connects profit with sustainability

It’s important that, as entrepreneur, you don’t set out with the idea of saving the world, but take the time to work out a business plan which details on how you are going to make the money needed to make it work.

Already at that early stage, you can factor in minimum standards for sustainability, such as the GSTC Industry Standard, which will help you to keep expenses low, for example by conserving energy and water.

Too many small tourism businesses dedicated to sustainability ultimately fail because their leaders follow a vague, utopian idea of life in harmony with nature. The simple truth is that when you are busy thinking about surviving, it’s difficult to think about sustainability.

Entrepreneurial success is often the result of a good understanding of figures, feasibility planning and business plans created by Doers who use common sense and keep both feet on the ground.

5 Skills and knowledge

Tourism entrepreneurs need the knowledge, capacity and tools to implement sustainability best practice. Successful entrepreneurs manage to obtain education and to acquire the necessary skills, despite the lack of resources most SME face.

Finding the time to investigate best practices while running a small business is tough, but the only chance to stay innovative and competitive. If you find yourself in this situation, perhaps our Information Scout service can help.

And: continued training is now easier than ever. Many organisation offer online seminars on topics linked to tourism and sustainability. We can help you find a suitable one.

Funding is key to the success of any entrepreneur, not just in tourism. Those who make it beyond the first years do so because they have access to funds or a financial cushion. They know how to link long-term investment in social capital to a viable cash flow.

Knowing where to get financial backing from is thus a key factor for succeeding as a sustainable tourism entrepreneur.

7 In-depth knowledge about your market

The seventh success factor for sustainability entrepreneurship in tourism, according to our panel, is about knowing your market extremely well. Understanding it and being aware about its needs, trends and opportunities is crucial for finding your own, profitable niche, and the right business partners.

Too often, sustainability gains aren’t made because the right suppliers are missing, or because of lack of market access. Successful entrepreneurs overcome those challenges by being creative, pragmatic and alert.

8 Marketable product, unique selling proposition

Knowing your market very well is no guarantee for success, if your product or service has no demand, or is hard to sell. As one panelist put it, there is a big difference between a good idea and a good business. Entrepreneurs have a well-developed idea for a genuinely marketable product.

The key (and this is probably new) is to not aim for “green aware markets” by advertising your product or service as green or sustainable. Rather, successful sustainability entrepreneurs and business owners focus on offering comfortable, convenient, high value for money products or services to the mass market. In other words, characteristics which holiday makers are actually looking for at the point of purchase (very few travellers purchase “sustainability”).

9 Value-driven leadership

If you don’t live it, nobody will. Successful sustainability entrepreneurs live their business ethics. It’s the personal commitment from the owner or manager that motivates the rest of the staff. Only together can sustainability be fully integrated in day-to-day business practice.

10 Good idea and story, well communicated

Successful entrepreneurs in tourism and sustainability have a good idea or story, and know how to communicate it well – both internally and externally.

11 Skilled team and good partners

If you team doesn’t believe in sustainability, then your chances for success on that front are limited. It’s them who have to implement procedures at the operational level. Key to success is to train and make staff aware about sustainability practices. Not just how to do it, but also making sure they understand the why.

A sustainability-smart team will make your life as entrepreneur and business owner much easier, and success much easier to obtain.

12 Focus on adding value, not reinventing the wheel

Here’s an important observation shared by one panelist: Entrepreneurship in tourism isn’t necessarily the creation of a new tool, practice or product. It’s about coherence, integrity and offering quality services and experiences which are true to your identity (=authentic).

In a world where reputation is the strongest currency and your brand the king, success comes to those who create and add value while staying true to their core product, ideals and beliefs.

13 Courage: ability and capacity to take risk

There’s no way around the fact that to succeed as entrepreneur means that you are able to take a certain amount of risk and wiling to give something new a try. Courage is perhaps the key to it all.

Last but not least, you need luck to succeed. Luck to run the right business model in the right place at the right time.

The following panelists have contributed:

Albert Salman (Netherlands), Alex Tsuk (Indonesia), Antonio Abreu (Portugal), Ariane Janér (Brazil), Asma Rasheed (Maldives), Brian Mullis (USA), Dagmar Lund-Durlacher (Austria), Eduard Mueller (Costa Rica), Fiona Jeffery (UK), Gavin Bate (UK), Gianna Moscardo (Australia), Karen Kuhl (Nicaragua), Kelly Bricker (USA), Kevin Teng (Singapore), Louise Twining-Ward (USA), Maria Lougari (Greece), Mariana Madureira (Brazil), Masaru Takayama (Japan), Paul Peeters (Netherlands), Peter Richards (Myanmar), Philippe Moreau (Portugal), Rachel Dodds (Canada), Richard Butler (UK), Ronald Sanabria (Costa Rica), Shannon Guihan (Canada), Steve Noakes (Australia), Tricia Barnett (UK), Vicente Ferreyra Acosta (Mexico).

More about the panel here .

Enjoyed this snapshot of expert views on the key success factors for sustainability entrepreneurship in tourism? Spread the word!

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• by Editorial Team

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Innovation for Tourism Sustainability: Challenges to Overcome

Innovation for Tourism Sustainability: Priorities & Opportunities

Innovation for Tourism Sustainability: Examples and Solutions

Achieving Sustainable Tourism: These Are the Key Challenges

Sustainable Tourism 2022 and Beyond: These Are the Keys to Success

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Tourism Review

ISSN : 1660-5373

Article publication date: 19 December 2019

Issue publication date: 20 February 2020

Tourism entrepreneurship is an emerging area of study that has both practical and theoretical importance. This paper aims to review past research on tourism entrepreneurship with the view of highlighting neglected areas of study.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the past 75 years is conducted that highlights the gaps in the research in need of further research.

There is a focus on lifestyle and sustainable forms of tourism entrepreneurship without taking into account emerging technologies and other forms of entrepreneurship such as digital and societal.

Originality/value

This paper places emphasis on the transdisciplinary nature of tourism entrepreneurship that enables researchers to build on multiple disciplines to derive fruitful new areas of research interest.

• Entrepreneurship

Ratten, V. (2020), "Tourism entrepreneurship research: a perspective article", Tourism Review , Vol. 75 No. 1, pp. 122-125. https://doi.org/10.1108/TR-06-2019-0204

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Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited

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Nascent tourism entrepreneurship: the effect of business planning on new venture creation in the hospitality and tourism sector

• Published: 30 January 2024
• Volume 14 , article number  3 , ( 2024 )

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• Sufia Mohand-Amar   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-5393-0602 1  

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This study aims to analyze the factors that promote new venture creation in the hospitality and tourism sector. Concretely, we focus on the critical role of business planning and explore the mechanism that explains business creation through entrepreneurial efforts invested by nascent tourism entrepreneurs. We are based on a sample of 90 nascent entrepreneurs from the Panel Study of Entrepreneurial Dynamics (PSED I and PSED II), who are involved in the new venture creation process within the hospitality and tourism sector. The results show that business planning directly relates to the entrepreneurial effort invested into the start-up process. On the other hand, it does not influence directly new venture creation in the hospitality and tourism sector; however, we test an indirect relationship through entrepreneurial effort. The present study offers important practical implications for policymakers who are dedicated to designing programs and policies that support the growth of the tourism and hospitality sector in the region.

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The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (COMPSOS Project PID2020-117313RB-I00), Ministry of Universities (FPU17/03638), the University of Granada, and the Programa Operativo FEDER Andalucía (SOSTEMPRE Project B-SEJ-682-UGR20).

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Mohand-Amar, S. Nascent tourism entrepreneurship: the effect of business planning on new venture creation in the hospitality and tourism sector. J Glob Entrepr Res 14 , 3 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40497-024-00376-6

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Received : 18 October 2023

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Published : 30 January 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s40497-024-00376-6

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