Project Title: Cross-border Electronic Exchange for Tourism Accommodation Units
Acronym: CETA
Coordinator: Ionian University (Scientific Lead) & Corfu Chamber of Commerce
Type of funding: Territorial Cooperation Grant / Digital Transformation
Funding source: Interreg V-A Greece-Italy Programme (or relevant CBC framework)
Date: 2013-2015
Project website:
Project Overview
The project addressed the “digital invisibility” of small, non-hotel accommodation units (such as villas, small apartments, and traditional guesthouses). While large hotel chains had robust booking systems, these smaller units often lacked the tools to reach international markets. CETA created a unified digital framework to help these businesses exchange availability and service data across borders, effectively connecting local supply with global tourism demand.
Key Features
– Cross-Border Exchange Platform: A digital hub that allowed tourism operators in Greece and Italy to share real-time data regarding availability and pricing.
– Supply-Demand Matching: Advanced software tools designed to match specific traveler preferences (e.g., eco-tourism or cultural interest) with the unique offerings of small-scale local providers.
– ICT Digital Toolkit: Distribution of information and communication technology (ICT) tools to small business owners, enabling them to manage digital bookings and online presence without high overhead costs.
– Standardized Data Protocols: Implementation of common electronic standards for describing accommodation units, ensuring that information was consistent and easily searchable across different regional portals.
– Institutional Synergy: Collaborative efforts between the Ionian University and the Corfu Chamber of Commerce to provide technical training and business support to local stakeholders.