We are thrilled to announce that Prospares WebTech, a newly established Timorese-led and Timorese-owned startup, has been selected as one of the 60 winners of the prestigious ASEAN Blue Innovation Challenge (ABIC). Launched in April 2024, the ABIC is an initiative endorsed by the ASEAN Coordinating Committee on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, implemented by UNDP Indonesia, and funded by the Government of Japan. It aims to promote sustainable blue economy solutions across ASEAN and Timor-Leste as part of the ASEAN Blue Economy Innovation Project.

Despite being newly founded in June 2024, Prospares WebTech has already made a strong impact on the global stage. Competing against 1,341 proposals from across Southeast Asia and Timor-Leste, our groundbreaking project, TimorGetaway, was chosen for its powerful blend of digital innovation, economic empowerment, and social and environmental impact in driving sustainable tourism.
Founded by young entrepreneur Delivio Soares in June 2024, Prospares WebTech has quickly made its mark on the international stage. With Flora Brytes leading the TimorGetaway project as the team leader, and a team of five dedicated innovators – Delivio Soares, Joctan Lopes, Octavio de Araujo, Guida Freitas, and Roberto Martins – the platform is set to revolutionize tourism in Timor-Leste.

Digital Transformation for Sustainable Tourism
At its core, TimorGetaway is a cutting-edge digital platform designed to transform the tourism experience in Timor-Leste. The platform simplifies how travelers explore and book eco-friendly accommodations and activities by offering:

• Eco-friendly lodging options and sustainable tourism activities with real-time booking capabilities.
• Seamless digital payment systems, making it easier for tourists and local businesses to connect.
• A user-friendly interface that provides curated travel packages and experiences reflecting the beauty and culture of Timor-Leste.

This digital transformation not only enhances convenience for eco-conscious travelers but also strengthens the digital presence of local businesses, integrating them into the global tourism economy and ensuring even the smallest operators can thrive.

Economic Impact: Empowering Local Businesses and Entrepreneurs
Timor Getaway’s economic impact is far-reaching. By promoting eco-friendly accommodations and supporting local tour operators, the platform stimulates revenue growth in rural areas like Com Village in Lautem Municipality. Through community engagement and training, we aim to empower local entrepreneurs, especially women, to succeed in the growing eco-tourism market.

The project will train at least 10 eco-friendly homestay operators and help them access financing opportunities, building their capacity to cater to an increasing number of eco-conscious travelers. In the next two years, TimorGetaway plans to expand across all 13 municipalities, further driving economic growth and opportunities for local businesses.

Social Impact: Promoting Inclusivity and Empowering Women
At Prospares WebTech, we are especially proud that TimorGetaway is a woman-led initiative under the leadership of Flora Brytes. As part of a significant achievement, 45% of the ABIC winners are women-led projects, and our platform is no exception. We believe in the power of women’s empowerment to drive social change, and TimorGetaway focuses on equipping women entrepreneurs with the skills and resources they need to thrive in the tourism sector.

Through the promotion of local culture and community-centered tourism, TimorGetaway fosters social cohesion and ensures tourism benefits are shared equitably, particularly among marginalized and vulnerable groups.

Environmental Impact: Championing Sustainable Tourism
TimorGetaway is not just about economic development—it’s about ensuring that tourism in Timor-Leste is sustainable and environmentally responsible. Our platform prioritizes eco-friendly practices, promoting low-impact tourism that preserves local ecosystems while offering travelers unique experiences.

We aim to minimize the negative environmental footprint and promote conservation efforts in one of Timor-Leste’s most pristine areas—Com Village. Through this initiative, we are setting a new standard for responsible tourism in the region.

Looking Ahead
Over the next six months, TimorGetaway will roll out its pilot project in Com Village, with plans to expand nationwide over the next two years. In February 2025, we will showcase our platform at a business matchmaking event in Jakarta, Indonesia, where we will connect with potential investors and partners to further accelerate our growth and impact.

Prospares WebTech is proud to be at the forefront of creating Timor-Leste’s first digital eco-tourism platform, driving economic empowerment, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability in the tourism sector. We look forward to continuing our journey of innovation and positive change.

For more information about the ASEAN Blue Innovation Challenge and to view the complete list of winners, visit the official UNDP announcement.