New Delhi, May 11 (IANS): Himachal Pradesh-based sustainable tourism startup 'NotOnMap' has received 2,50,000 euros grant from digital travel platform Booking.com as part of its accelerator programme.

'NotOnMap' was among 10 sustainable tourism startups worldwide who received scaling grants as part of the 2 million euros "2019 Booking Booster accelerator programme," Booking.com announced on Saturday.

'NotOnMap' empowers communities and creates a livelihood for marginalized, vulnerable people in rural areas through the preservation of culture and heritage, connecting travellers with unique, differentiated experiences.

"It's mystical that Booking Booster could identify an organization which was hidden deep inside the rural community of the Himalayas, yet they valued the true potential of our efforts," said Kumar Anubhav, founder of 'NotOnMap'.

The startup helps travellers explore rural India, with the aim of donating 80 per cent of the revenue towards the overall development of the village.

"We will use this grant to boost up the confidence of our team and community and move forward in our journey to make the world a better place," he added.

The 10 startups hail from eight different countries and operate collectively across virtually the entire globe.

"We have long believed that technology is a powerful instrument for good, including when it comes to sustainable travel. I'm so proud of each and every one of these passionate change makers," said Gillian Tans, President and CEO of Booking.com.

The other sustainable tourism startups are Avy (Netherlands), Clean Travel (Australia), Hydrao (France), I Like Local (Netherlands), IMPULSE Travel (Colombia), Okra Solar (Australia), Picha Eats (Malaysia), SASANE Sisterhood Trekking and Travel (Nepal) and Sumba Hospitality Foundation (Indonesia).