2023 was the most dispersed year of travel with guests on Airbnb traveling to more than 100,000 cities and towns across more than 200 countries and regions. As guests continue to explore new destinations, more people than ever before have the opportunity to reap the economic benefits of home sharing. In the US alone, Hosts earned more than $24 billion in supplemental income in 2023, helping them make ends meet, save for retirement, and pay their mortgage.
To help communities around the world benefit from tourism, we launched the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy in 2017. The Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy introduces people from diverse and historically underrepresented communities to hosting on our platform. Through the Academy, we work with local organizations to develop tailored education programs that help participants learn how to become entrepreneurs by turning their spare room or property into a source of extra money on Airbnb.
Since its launch in 2017, the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy has helped more than 4,500 participants from diverse and underrepresented communities in 12 countries learn how to host on Airbnb.
2024 Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy expansion
In 2024, we’ll continue to scale the Academy by partnering with more than 30 organizations, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), Black BRAND, and Washington Area Community Investment Fund (Wacif) in the US, UNESCO and World Wildlife Fund in Mexico, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia, Global Himalayan Expedition in India, and the Central University of Technology, Free State and the University of Johannesburg in South Africa.
Each of these partners shares our commitment to empowering diverse and underrepresented communities through the tourism economy. Airbnb and the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center help fund these organizations to support their existing entrepreneurship programs and host Academies to help the communities they serve unlock the economic opportunities of hosting.
The Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy in action
As part of the Academy, participants hear directly from Superhosts who share tips and helpful information on how to get started and find success on Airbnb. Many also learn about our platform and tools that can help them build wealth, grow their business, and support inclusive tourism.
The Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy helped me start my “Awesome Zulu village experience” on Airbnb and offered me a lifeline when all seemed lost. Since becoming a Host on Airbnb, my confidence and self-esteem have been restored, enabling me to take proactive steps in providing for my family’s needs with pride and dignity. Moreover, hosting on Airbnb has helped my family and me understand the importance of human connection and compassion, strengthening our bonds and reaffirming our commitment to supporting one another with love and empathy.
—Zamani, Academy attendee from Mpembheni, South Africa
As a participant in the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy program, I’ve experienced a transformative journey beyond business. It has not only impacted my life by equipping me with the skills to thrive in the hospitality industry but also created jobs in our local community. What sets this program apart is its commitment to fostering connections and community growth, reminding us that Airbnb is not like other travel companies. It’s a platform that values genuine human experiences, and I’m proud to be part of this extraordinary endeavor.
—Wira, Academy attendee from Bali, Indonesia
Thanks to the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy sessions hosted with UNESCO and Co’ox Mayab, I’ve discovered a treasure trove of potential within my own heritage. I’ve learned about everything from cultural preservation to the practical application of tech in tourism. Since participating in the Academy, I’ve been able to elevate the experiences I offer in our hidden cenotes and lush jungles to teach guests about our heritage and sustainability. The response has been astounding: guests come not just for the adventure but for the stories and human connection I provide. It brings me a lot of pride to see my passion unfold into a gateway for the world to witness the authenticity and splendor of Yucatán.
—Rafa, Academy attendee from Yucatán, Mexico
The partnership between the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy has been a transformative journey for me as an indigenous entrepreneur living in a rural community. Through the Academy I have not only gained the knowledge and skills to become a Superhost on Airbnb but also unlock the true potential of my entrepreneurial spirit. This partnership has provided me with the tools, resources, and support to showcase the beauty of my Cherokee heritage to those who choose to visit Cherokee. It has empowered me to create a thriving business that not only benefits myself but also fosters economic growth within my community.
—Melody, Academy attendee from North Carolina, US
By expanding the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy, we aim to help more communities benefit from tourism in the places they call home. Learn more about the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy.
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