IMMiNTE (Integrating Immigrants into the Tourism and Hospitality Sector in the EU) is an initiative co-funded by the European Union program, dedicated to promoting cultural inclusion and vocational excellence in the HORECO sector (Hotels, Restaurants, and Catering). The IMMiNTE project aims to address labor shortages and skills mismatches in the European tourism and hospitality sector by supporting the social and professional integration of immigrants through innovative vocational education and training (VET).
Essentially, IMMiNTE integrates socio-professional inclusion as a key pillar for the resilience of the EU tourism and hospitality sector, which is currently facing a critical labor shortage. The project adopts an inclusive approach that goes beyond conventional training to bridge the skills gap and ensure a successful cultural transition for both immigrant workers and businesses.
Drawing inspiration from the principles of inclusive economy, IMMiNTE promotes the idea that cultural diversity is a catalyst for service quality and innovation. The project contributes to creating a more adaptable labor market by facilitating skills recognition and empowering workers to thrive in global professional environments.
General Objective:
Foster new digital tools and VET trainings to facilitate cultural diversity and inclusivity of immigrants to address market needs of the hospitality and tourism sector.
Specific objectives:
As the project evolves, IMMiNTE will consolidate a training model that can be replicated across Europe. Through the creation of online platforms, interactive games, and training manuals, the initiative aims to inspire systemic change, transforming the HORECO sector into a benchmark for inclusive hospitality and operational efficiency. Strengthening cooperation networks will ensure that these tools continue to drive social well-being and economic productivity in the long term.
Project members:
IMMiNTE is a transnational collaboration bringing together universities, NGOs, and consultancy experts in training and sustainability:
● Instituto Politécnico do Porto (IPP) – Portugal (Coordinator)
● Apostolina Tsaltampasi Kai Sia EE – Greece
● ETHNIC Sustainable Tourism Association – Spain
● Sensus, Region Stockholm-Gotland – Sweden
● DEKAPLUS Business Services Ltd – Cyprus
Project localization:
Portugal, Greece, Spain, Sweden and Cyprus
Project schedule:
2025 (01/09/2025) - 2027 (31/08/2027)
