Conclusions from the 9th CDT Innova Tourism Meeting
Yesterday in Badajoz, the Annual Meeting of Members of the Extremadura Tourism Cluster took place, along with the 9th CDT Innova Tourism Space, a key event for the region’s tourism sector. The event brought together business owners, professionals, and institutions to reflect on innovation and the development of new projects in the tourism field.
The day began with a presentation of completed European projects, such as CulTourData and Tourism 4.0, where several companies shared their experiences and best practices. Participating companies included Gran Hotel Don Manuel, Montijo Tour, Naturalmente, Inzulae, and Cata con Cati, who explained how these projects benefited them, the tools they used, and the results achieved.
Funding Opportunities and New Projects
Councillor Rubén Galea, in his speech during the event to tourism professionals and experts in innovation and smart tourism, encouraged the exchange of ideas for the development of the sector.
In turn, Jesús Viñuales, General Director of Tourism for the Government of Extremadura, highlighted the region’s progress as an alternative inland destination, a result of collaboration between institutions and business owners.
Ignacio Sáez de Santamaría, representing Caja Rural Extremadura, gave a talk on the financing options that his institution offers to promote tourism projects in the region.
New Projects
During the morning, new projects in which the cluster is involved were also presented, including the innovative Dancing Histor(y)ies and three new POCTEP projects: Red Cift, Ilumina, and Heprestone. Their objectives and the challenges they pose were outlined, inviting attendees to learn more about these initiatives.
Innovation, Technology, and Tourism: Presentations and Panels
The meeting continued with three presentations focused on innovation, technology, and tourism. Among the speakers were Antonio Blanco, Director of Silice, and Juanjo Rodríguez from Futura Vive, who addressed key topics for the future of the sector. Additionally, a panel discussion was held with Sonia González from Martural and Juanjo Cerezo from Extremadura Curiosa, who discussed the benefits of working with influencers and marketing agencies, highlighting their value for tourism promotion.
2024 Tourism Innovation Award
One of the most notable moments of the event was the presentation of the 2024 Tourism Innovation Award. This year, the award was given to Marta Bastos for her initiatives: Ad Astra Hervás, related to astrotourism, and “e-bikes Hervás”, offering bike rentals and routes. The award recognised her contribution to tourism in Extremadura and her innovative approach.
Annual Assembly and Election of the New Board of Directors
In the afternoon, the Annual Assembly of Cluster Members was held, during which the new board of directors was elected as follows:
- President: Mª José García Curto
- Vice President: Pilar Acosta
- Secretary: Julio González
- Treasurer: Rafael Pintado
- Board Members: Vicente Pozas, Caridad Hernández, José L. Coca, and Natalia López-Mosquera (as replacement).
This annual meeting solidifies the role of the Extremadura Tourism Cluster as an essential platform for fostering collaboration, idea exchange, and the promotion of projects that enhance tourism in the region.
