Applications open for TUI Forests Programme
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The TUI Care Foundation’s TUI Forests programme places forests at the heart of thriving communities and sustainable tourism destinations while supporting local livelihoods through initiatives like community-run tree nurseries and forest-based tourism.
Between tree planting and community action, the programme has reached impressive milestones up to 2025. More than five million trees were planted in just two years, with over two thousand jobs supported, endangered species protected, thirty community-managed nurseries established, and six immersive tourism experiences developed.
Now the Foundation aims to double its impact by 2030 by funding both large and small-scale tree planting projects in tourism-rich locations. If your organization contributes to forest conservation, envisions tourism as a tool for sustainable development, and wants to broaden its impact, this opportunity could be a great fit.
Grants range from €10,000 to €150,000 per year and support projects that run for at least 24 months. Funding can cover activities that expand forest cover, boost environmental and social benefits along the tourism value chain, communications, visibility, consultancy or staff costs up to 30 percent of the budget, modest overhead, and related project expenses. However, land acquisition, property leasing, and high-value tangible assets are generally excluded unless the context allows otherwise.
Eligible destinations span across continents and include countries where tourism and forest conservation need coincide. Locations range widely, from Indonesia, Mexico, Peru, Vietnam, South Africa, Portugal, Türkiye, and Greece, to Costa Rica, Sri Lanka, Jamaica, Egypt, Mauritius, and beyond.
Applications are welcomed throughout the year, although priority will be given to proposals received in 2025. Applications proceed through an initial proposal submission, followed by an introduction meeting, and, if selected, a full project proposal submitted via Optimy. Final decisions require approval from the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.
Though forests may seem distant, if your organization is ready to expand forest-rich livelihoods in tourism destinations, this programme offers both the funding and support to make meaningful change possible.
