Think Shark Tank for experience operators – judged by some of travel’s biggest names. If you’ve got the next bestselling experience idea, we want to back it.
Launchpad Americas, in partnership with leading industry experts, is your chance to turn your bold, original idea into a scalable standout experience – for operators across North, Central and South America.
It follows the success of our first Launchpad in Europe, where over 160 entries were cast and Benjamin Reilly of Aix Tours took home $10,000 for his Paint and Wine Tasting tour in Provence. Now it’s the America’s turn.
Open to all operators in North, Central and South America – whether you are a Bókun user or not.
What you could win
The Launchpad Accelerator package:
- $10,000 USD cash prize to help bring your idea to life
- 12-month free Bókun START subscription and 0% booking fees on the winning product
- 12 months commission-free distribution on the winning product with Viator and Airbnb
- 2 tickets to an Arival event of your choice
- 12-month Tourpreneur PRO membership and TripSchool place
- 1-1 strategy session with Brand USA to scale your winning idea
- A professionally-produced video case study, dedicated support, and enhanced marketing opportunities
How to enter (It’s easier than you think)
Don’t overthink it – we want to hear your ideas, rough edges and all.
What you need to do:
- Record a short 60-90 second video pitch of a BRAND NEW experience you want to launch (seriously your phone camera is perfect)
- Explain who it’s for, what makes it special and why now – keep it genuine and conversational
- Submit your video and details via the Launchpad Americas competition page
Your video doesn’t need to be polished. No fancy production, no scripting required. Just hit record, tell us your idea, and hit submit. We’re looking for passion and potential, not Hollywood.
Heading to Arival Spokane (12-16 October)?
Skip the self-tape – follow the signs and swing by our dedicated filming booth and record your pitch with us in person.
Meet the Panel
Make the shortlist, and you’ll present a live virtual pitch to a panel of industry experts from Viator, Airbnb, Arival, Tourpreneur, Travel Trends Podcast, Brand USA and Gray Line.
Here’s what they’ll be scoring you on:
- Innovation (30 points): Does the concept stand out in a saturated market? Is it a category definer?
- Operational feasibility (20 points): Can you handle the logistics safely? Is there a contingency plan?
- Traveller fit (20 points): Is the product aligned to current traveller trends — sustainable, meaningful, community-driven?
- Commercial viability (20 points): Are the unit economics sound? Is this a scalable business or a hobby?
- The pitch (10 points): Founder passion, clarity and energy.
Ready to go?
We’re backing the next generation of extraordinary experiences across the Americas. Could it be yours? Enter the Launchpad Americas competition now.