Help Choose the Next Collette Impact Initiative Grant Winner

At Collette, travel goes beyond the itinerary — it’s about uplifting communities, preserving cultures, and protecting the environments we explore. That’s the spirit behind The Impact Initiative, our microgrant program launched in 2024 to help our on-tour Responsible Travel partners expand their incredible work.

These small but mighty grants — ranging from $250 to $2,500 — are awarded to vendors already featured on our tours as Impact Moments or Responsible Travel Highlights. Whether they’re restoring wildlife habitats, supporting gender equality, or keeping local traditions alive, these partners are the heart of responsible travel. The Impact Initiative gives them direct access to funds that help them scale meaningful projects and address urgent community needs.

So far, we’ve hosted two rounds of Impact Initiative grants — and every qualified applicant received the maximum award. With some leftover funds from each round, we decided to take things a step further and create the Impact Beyond “Bump” Grant — a special $10,000 award for one previous microgrant recipient to grow an existing initiative or launch something new.

After carefully reviewing the applications, our internal team has selected three outstanding finalists. Now, we’re turning the final decision over to you.

Read about the finalists below, and cast your vote before August 13th!

Ocean Sole (Kenya)

Project: Turtle-Safe Conservation Expansion in Kwa Chambo

Known for turning ocean trash into art, Ocean Sole now has its sights set on marine life protection. With this grant, they plan to expand their Turtle-Safe program by doubling the number of trained rangers patrolling key nesting beaches and building a Turtle Education Hub made from local materials. This centre will host conservation workshops, school visits, and serve as the launch point for eco-tourism experiences — bringing income to former poachers and engaging the entire community in marine preservation. From education to eco-tourism, Ocean Sole is creating a ripple effect that supports both people and planet.

Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust (Zimbabwe)

Project: Community Mushroom Farming for Sustainable Livelihoods

In Zimbabwe, the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust is planting the seeds of lasting change. Their newest initiative will train local women and youth to sustainably grow mushrooms, creating a year-round source of income, nutrition, and opportunity. With minimal land and resources required, mushroom farming offers a quick, low-impact path to self-employment — from cultivation to harvest to sales. The project also brings clear environmental benefits, using circular farming practices to enrich local gardens and reduce waste. By connecting rural producers with Victoria Falls’ thriving tourism market, this effort doesn’t just grow mushrooms — it cultivates community resilience, food security, and economic independence.

Aran Islands Goat Cheese & Food Tours (Ireland)

Project: Sustainable Visitor Centre Expansion

Located on Inishmore in the Aran Islands, this partner is looking to expand its visitor centre into a vibrant multipurpose space. The new area would host cheese- and bread-making workshops, traditional crafts like basket weaving, and storytelling sessions for travellers from around the world. It would also feature exhibits from the AranLIFE Project — a sustainable farming initiative that celebrates and conserves the region’s rich agricultural heritage. With solar panels planned for the roof and a strong focus on tradition and sustainability, this expansion will offer guests a deeper connection to the land and culture.

Thanks for helping us travel responsibly — let’s make a difference together.

Each of these finalists is already making a difference — but with your help, one will receive an extra boost to take their vision even further. Thanks for helping us travel responsibly — let’s make a difference together.