Home-sharing platform Airbnb is allocating nearly $5.6 million to support community projects across Europe, aiming to preserve and promote the local customs, traditions and landmarks that give towns and cities their distinctive character.
Funds will be channeled into a new Community Tourism Program designed to engage non-profit organizations, charities and grassroots community groups throughout the region. Interested organizations can apply for partial grants by explaining how collaboration with Airbnb would help expand their initiatives and benefit local residents, heritage and cultural features.
Airbnb’s move comes as several European cities, including Barcelona and Berlin, have introduced limits on short-term rentals to address housing shortages, pressure on services and overtourism. In response, Airbnb has launched a series of targeted projects across the continent to improve relations with local communities and demonstrate a commitment to responsible hosting and tourism.
The company says final recipients of the Community Tourism Program grants will be announced in February.