Bókun has launched a ‘Dragon’s Den-style’ competition to find travel’s next best experience across Europe.
*All details correct at time of publish (06 May 2026)
The competition partners with travel industry giants – Viator, GetYourGuide, Arival, Tourpreneur, Travel Trends Podcast and Gray Line with the prize being the Launchpad Accelerator Package, plus a $10,000 USD cash prize.
Entries open from 1st May to 22nd May, and must be submitted to bokun.io/launchpad.
With consumers increasingly demanding more unique, immersive experiences, and overtourism driving travellers to seek out hidden gems and more human connection experiences, the opportunity to spotlight and support the next generation of experience providers has never been more important.
Experience-led travel is rapidly emerging as one of travel’s fastest-growing markets, projected to exceed over $342 billion by 2029.
As the #1 connectivity partner across major OTAs, Bókun is championing innovation, powering the experience industry and supporting ideas that deserve to be seen, booked and remembered.
The competition that gives tour operators across Europe the chance to turn their next big experience idea into reality, pitching directly to some of the biggest names in travel.
The Prize:
The winning operator will receive the Launchpad Accelerator Package to bring their experience to life. This includes:
- 12-month free Bókun START subscription and 0% booking fees on the winning experience
- 12-month commission-free distribution on the winning product with Viator and GetYourGuide.
- 2 free tickets to Ariva 2027 with Spark Point Connection stand (worth $10,000)
- Free 12-month Tourpreneur PRO membership and TripSchool place
- A featured video case study shot by our videographer
- Dedicated support from Bókun and increased marketing from OTA partners
- Additional marketing from GetYourGuide and Viator for the winning product
Winner will also receive a $10,000 USD cash prize.
Who can enter
The Bókun Launchpad Competition is open to operators building or growing an experience across Europe, including:
- Start-ups: Early-stage European operators with a strong concept, seeking funding, strategic connections and distribution opportunities.
- Hidden gems: Established operators ready to launch their next niche, high-potential experience.
- Scalers: Larger operators looking to expand into new locations, products or formats.
Ian Macleod, Director of Marketing at Bókun, explains how the Launchpad Competition is supporting the next generation of experience providers at a pivotal moment for the travel industry:
“We know that travel is changing. Today’s travellers are increasingly seeking unique, immersive experiences beyond destinations alone.
“At the same time, overtourism has created a saturated market that is difficult to break through. That’s why we’re proud to launch the Launchpad Competition, in partnership with Viator, GetYourGuide, Arival, Tourpreneur, Travel Trends Podcast and Gray Line.
“Think Dragons Den for experienced operators. Together, we’re championing innovation by offering experience providers the opportunity to pitch their concept to a panel of the leading names in the travel industry – all looking to back the next best-selling experience idea.
“So, whether you’re a start-up with bold ideas but limited reach, or an established operator looking to expand into new destinations or develop your next bestseller, this is your chance to turn your concept into a scalable, standout business.”
How to Enter
For those tour, activity and experience providers who would like to get involved, find out more on how to enter here – bokun.io/launchpad
