Keywords
TRL (Technology Readiness Level)
tourism
business plan
innovation
digital tourism
sustainable development
commercialization
How to Cite
Abstract
The theoretical and applied foundations of using the TRL approach in the development of innovative startups in the tourism sector under conditions of digitalization, global challenges, and structural transformation of the tourism market have been studied. The feasibility of applying the Technology Readiness Level scale as a universal tool for assessing the maturity of innovative solutions, reducing uncertainty, and minimizing the risks of their implementation and scaling has been substantiated. The specific features of tourism startups functioning in the context of smart tourism development, open innovation, digital platforms, and entrepreneurial ecosystems, which determine the peculiarities of creating and commercializing innovative products and services in the industry, have been examined. Approaches to adapting TRL in the tourism sector have been systematized, and the relationship between startup development stages and levels of technological maturity has been established, taking into account industry-specific characteristics. It has been proven that the application of TRL enables structuring the startup development process from idea generation to full market implementation through consistent stages of verification, testing, and validation, thereby improving the quality of managerial decision-making and resource efficiency. A model for the practical application of TRL has been developed using the example of an AR startup in cultural tourism, which предусматриє step-by-step hypothesis testing, prototype development, pilot implementation, and further scaling within tourist destinations. It has been substantiated that TRL performs the functions of a communication tool with investors, a risk management mechanism, and a basis for planning funding sources at different stages of innovation project development. It has been established that, unlike high-tech industries, in tourism technological maturity is not the only determinant of success, as partnerships, stakeholder engagement, consumer behavior, and destination-specific characteristics also play a significant role. The necessity of a comprehensive approach to TRL adaptation, taking into account market, social, and institutional components of innovation development, has been proven. A conclusion has been formed regarding the expediency of using TRL as a flexible management tool that contributes to increasing the efficiency of innovation activities, accelerating technology commercialization, and enhancing the competitiveness of tourism startups in modern conditions.
References
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Héder, M. (2017). From NASA to EU: The evolution of the TRL scale in public sector innovation. The Innovation Journal: The Public Sector Innovation Journal, 22(2).
Hjalager, A.-M. (2010). A review of innovation research in tourism. Tourism Management, 31(1), 1–12. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2009.08.012
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Vongvisitsin, T. B., & Tung, V. W. S. (2025). Technology start-ups in tourism and hospitality: A networked social capital theory perspective from early-stage start-up founders. Tourism Management, 106. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2024.104996
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