Pitch Your Inclusive Start-Up: how students' innovation is redefining the tourism of tomorrow

On 27th March 2025, Excelia Hotel & Tourism School came alive to the rhythm of the 3rd edition of Pitch Your Inclusive Start-Up, an event that has become a must-attend for the tourism professionals of tomorrow.
Under the leadership of Dr. Kévin Grande, Associate Professor and Researcher at the Tourism Management Institute, this day allowed students from the Bachelor in Tourism Management to present their innovative ideas for a more inclusive and responsible tourism. 

 

XL Pro Tourism: a professional immersion day 

Starting at 11 am, the day's programme set the tone with a VVF masterclass led by Damien Ponsot, Director of Human Resources, discussing topics such as well-being at work, inclusivity, and employer branding. This was followed by a buffet lunch with Talent Center conferences, providing students with valuable advice on developing their network and personal branding, with contributions from Laurana Gardey Guignard (Hosco). 

The afternoon continued with a Camping Qualité masterclass, where Karine Farcot and Pascaline Martinez explored CSR issues in outdoor hospitality, as well as the tools and systems available for leadership roles. Talent Center round tables followed, promoting interactive exchanges between students and tourism professionals, strengthening the links between education and the industry. 

At the end of the day, a session raising awareness of different forms of disability enabled participants to better understand accessibility issues. At the same time, an innovative mentoring programme between alumni and students of the Tourism School was launched, creating a supportive and intergenerational exchange network. 

Dr. Kévin Grande: the architect of the event 

Kevin Grande Dr. Grande orchestrated the event as a true pre-incubator for projects.  

“The students managed all aspects of the organisation, from logistics to fundraising, including jury selection and partner management.” 

A hands-on experience that illustrates the innovative teaching approach of the Bachelor programme. Sylvia Rivera Valle and Laetitia Engrand, both sustainability consultants, also actively participated in the event. 

Pitch your inclusive start-up: projects in the spotlight 

After welcoming the guests and introducing the jury, made up of representatives from companies such as VVF, Camping Qualité, YDJI (Consulting Agency), FBG Architecture, and Decathlon, the students pitched their projects with passion and conviction. Richard Ginioux, Director of Excelia Hotel & Tourism School, also made a speech. 

Two projects stood out in particular: 

  • Je Dis Ouïe 🏆 (BTH French Track Prize + Jury's Favourite): Led by Elyna, Eline, Louna, and Alizée, this project offers a label and tools to improve accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing people in the tourism sector. 

  • Eatgy 🌱 (BTH English Track Prize): Developed by Romane, Anaïs, and Charlotte, this innovative app enables travellers with food allergies to travel safely by using a QR code or physical card to communicate their dietary needs to restaurants. 

The winners will receive support through XL Entrepreneur to bring their projects to life. A great opportunity for these future entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality and contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive tourism. 

The Bachelor in Tourism Management at a glance  

Want to take part in the next edition? The Bachelor in Tourism Management at Excelia trains tomorrow's tourism professionals with :  

  • An innovative pedagogy 

  • A strong international dimension  

  • Specialised areas (sustainable tourism, digital, events, etc.) 

  • A state-recognised qualification, accredited by the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)  

 

👉 Discover the full programme: Bachelor in Tourism Management  

👉 Connect with our graduates: Alumni Network