Project Launch

In a significant move towards fostering refugee entrepreneurship in the tourism sector, the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Khmelnytskyi National University (KHMNU) in Ukraine, alongside collaborative efforts with partners in Turkey, Croatia, and Belgium.

The joint initiative aims to identify both successful practices and obstacles, drawing insights from case studies applicable across EU countries grappling with the refugee crises stemming from the invasion of Ukraine.

Over a two-year period, the EU-funded project, named Inspire, intends to develop valuable resources to support refugee populations.

Such resources include the creation of a good practice user guide for refugee tourism entrepreneurs which will be supported by course materials, a website and mobile application.

The Inspire project also seeks to establish a searchable databank encompassing various supports for refugee tourism entrepreneurs, including educational and training aids, financial options, networking opportunities, and business support services.

TUS Inspire project leads Dr Anthony Johnston and Dr Noëlle O’Connor say this is about supporting refugees’ social integration and broadening access to higher education while also acknowledging the tangible economic value refugees add to their host country’s economy.

“Refugees are sometimes viewed as a strain on their host country’s economy, despite growing evidence proving their substantial economic contributions and a higher likelihood of job creation compared to other migrant groups or native-born citizens,” they explained.

“The Inspire project recognises this value and is specifically focused on offering support to refugee-led tourism entrepreneurship which has the capacity to add significantly to Ireland’s economy.”