The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KeveI) has extended the deadline for the I-STARS grant scheme, offering up to €5,600 per tourism company to support sustainable practices. The aim of the program is to attract quality tourists, reduce environmental impact, and provide financial and expert support to enhance sustainability in the tourism industry.
What is the I-STARS grant scheme extension for Cyprus tourism businesses?
The I-STARS grant scheme, extended by the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KeveI), offers up to €5,600 per tourism company to support sustainable practices. The new deadline for applications is 6 pm on December 6, 2023. This initiative aims to enhance sustainability in tourism, attract quality tourists, and reduce environmental impact while providing financial and expert support.
Grant Scheme Extension: A Boon for Tourism
The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KeveI) has recently made an important announcement that is bound to cause a ripple of excitement across the tourism industry. In a move that is sure to be welcomed by many, KeveI has extended the application deadline for the I-STARS grant scheme. This program is specifically designed to support tourism businesses, and with the extension, applications will now be accepted until 6 pm local time on Wednesday, December 6, 2023.
Funding for Sustainable Growth
The I-STARS grant offers a substantial incentive of up to €5,600 per company, which represents a significant financial boost for those in the tourism sector. One of the key aspects of this grant is that it is fully funded, which means that businesses do not have to worry about it being subject to the de-minimis regulation—a relief for many.
Sustainable Practices in the Spotlight
The overarching aim of this initiative is to encourage tourism businesses to adopt and integrate sustainable practices into their operations. The rationale behind this is clear: sustainability can bring a multitude of benefits that extend beyond the businesses themselves and into the communities and destinations they serve.
For instance, companies that align with sustainable practices are more likely to attract higher-quality tourists—those who place a premium on sustainability and prefer businesses that share their values. This not only boosts the local economy but also enhances the business’s performance and competitiveness. By operating sustainably, businesses often reduce operating costs, attract a more conscientious clientele, and carve out a competitive edge in their market.
Image and Responsibility
Another significant benefit of sustainability is the positive effect it has on a business’s image. As consumer awareness around environmental and social responsibilities grows, being seen as a company that cares about its impact is increasingly important. By embracing sustainability, businesses can project a more responsible and forward-thinking image.
The Environmental and Community Payoff
Adopting sustainable practices means actively reducing the environmental footprint left by tourism activities. This involves a variety of measures, such as energy conservation, effective waste management, and the preservation of local ecosystems. Furthermore, sustainable businesses often play a pivotal role in local communities by creating jobs, supporting education, and contributing to local projects—enhancing their corporate social responsibility profile.
Expert Guidance at Hand
Businesses looking to make the most of this extension will not only gain financial assistance but also access a wealth of knowledge from the chamber’s specialized sustainability consultants. These experts cover a diverse range of topics to help businesses implement and maintain sustainable practices effectively.
A Call to Action for Cyprus’s Tourism Industry
This extension is more than just a deadline; it’s an invitation for the tourism sector in Cyprus to take a significant step towards sustainability. With financial support and expert advice available through the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry, tourism businesses have everything to gain from taking part in this commendable initiative.
About the Author
Kyriacos Nicolaou is a seasoned journalist who joined the Cyprus Mail team in 2020. With a passion for business and finance, he later transitioned to the business & finance section where he dedicates his time to unraveling the stories of local firms, emerging startups, economic trends, and technological advancements.
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Quick Recap
- The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KeveI) has extended the deadline for the I-STARS grant scheme, offering up to €5,600 per tourism company to support sustainable practices.
- The aim of the program is to attract quality tourists, reduce environmental impact, and provide financial and expert support to enhance sustainability in the tourism industry.
- The new deadline for applications is 6 pm on December 6, 2023.
- The grant is fully funded, relieving businesses from the de-minimis regulation.
- Adopting sustainable practices can attract higher-quality tourists, boost the local economy, and enhance a business’s performance and competitiveness.
