Palestine Technopark, in partnership with Birzeit University, has unveiled the "Hike Up" program, a pioneering initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the tourism sector of the northern West Bank. The program is part of a broader effort to revitalize tourism along the Palestine Heritage Trail, particularly in regions like Jenin, Nablus, Jerusalem, and Ramallah.
The Hike-UP Program operating under the umbrella of the "Increasing Economic Opportunities and Improving Livelihoods for Communities along the Palestinian Heritage Trail'' project. This venture, spearheaded by the Palestinian Heritage Trail Association and funded by the Japan Social Development Fund in partnership with the World Bank, epitomizes a vision of empowerment, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.
The primary goal of "Hike Up" is to empower young residents, aged 18 to 29, with viable entrepreneurial ideas to develop projects that cater to the needs of trail visitors while promoting Palestinian heritage and eco-tourism principles.
Program Components:
- Intensive Training: Participants will undergo comprehensive training in idea-to-project transformation, marketing strategies, financial management, and essential life skills necessary for entrepreneurial success.
- Financial Support: The program will allocate funding of $5,000 to each of the 20 selected projects, enabling participants to kickstart their ventures and make their ideas a reality.
- Mentorship: Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to work closely with a team of experts and mentors who will provide guidance and support throughout the program.
- Community Engagement: "Hike Up" fosters a sense of community among participants, connecting them with fellow entrepreneurs and creating a network of like-minded individuals striving for success in the tourism industry.
Evaluation Criteria:
Applications will be assessed based on various criteria, including the relevance of the proposed project to the goals of the "Hike Up" program, the problem-solving approach, feasibility, scalability, profitability, relevant skills and experience of the applicant team, and environmental impact.
Information Sessions:
To provide further insights into the program and how to develop sustainable tourism initiatives, information sessions will be conducted in various locations:
- Nablus: June 1, 2024
- Ramallah: June 5, 2024
- Jenin: June 8, 2024
Evaluation Criteria:
Applications will be assessed based on various criteria, including the relevance of the proposed project to the goals of the "Hike Up" program, the problem-solving approach, feasibility, scalability, profitability, relevant skills and experience of the applicant team, and environmental impact.
Application Process:
The deadline for applications is June 15, 2024.
With the launch of the "Hike Up" program, Palestine Technopark invites aspiring entrepreneurs from the northern West Bank to seize this exceptional opportunity to turn their innovative tourism ideas into successful ventures. Through empowerment, support, and collaboration, the program aims to create a brighter future for tourism entrepreneurship in the region, contributing to sustainable economic growth and the preservation of Palestinian heritage.