Annecy-based traveltech Explora Project has raised €1.7 million to boost its vision of tourism with a positive impact on humans and their environment. The round was participated in by Kima Ventures, Crédit Agricole Alpes Development and French business angels. It’s also worth mentioning that the startup has also been supported by the 50 Partners accelerator since January 2020.
Founded in 2018 and launched commercially in June 2019, Explora Project was born from the imagination of Stanislas Gruau, 30-year-old finance expert and sportsman (having broken the record of crossing France running in 2011), who was joined by Alix Gauthier, co-founder of Copines de Voyage, in early 2020, to take the project to the next level.
With a team of 12 people based in Annecy, Explora Project organizes guided expeditions, all over Europe. The company offers transport with limited carbon impact, the chance to reconnect with nature and the opportunity to get far off the beaten track. Its technology platform is a cross between a travel agency, tour operator and local guide, offering a seamless experience between the local experience and the end customer.
With the health crisis leading us to question our consumption choices, this team of outdoor enthusiasts intends to propose new ways of travelling. High mountains, polar environments, sea, desert or whitewater, from contemplative travel to the engaged expedition – whatever the environment or the difficulty, Explora Project’s expeditions seek to accompany everyone on a journey of discovery.
Explora Project has already taken nearly 500 participants on 80 expeditions in 12 countries, and built an online community of 10,000 active members.
The startup will use the funds to focus on the markets of France and Europe, stretch to zero waste travel, and continue its activities like offering low carbon-intensive transport and organic local food.
“Tourism is a huge market that will undergo radical changes in the coming years. The offer of Explora Project is particularly suited to seize these new opportunities and we are very happy to accompany this exceptional team in their project”, said Jérôme Masurel, CEO and founder of 50 Partners.
via https://www.AiUpNow.com/ by contact@bcurdy.com, Khareem Sudlow
