The Airbnb Academy

Collaborate with Airbnb to bring economic empowerment to your communities

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Two women speak by a sunny window. One woman is a wheelchair user.

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Woman smiles in a pantry full of sauces and bottles

Since launching in the US in 2021, the Airbnb Academy has provided thousands of individuals from diverse and historically underrepresented communities a pathway to entrepreneurship by becoming hosts on Airbnb. The Academy combines the resources and global reach of Airbnb with the local expertise and cultural knowledge of community partners.

The Academy program

When you join an Academy, you gain direct access to experienced hosts on Airbnb who share their expertise, lessons learned, and proven best practices. With the support of local partners, you’ll build a valuable network and acquire transferable entrepreneurial skills that can set you up for success. Each Academy lasts between 60 and 90 minutes and can be delivered either online or in person.Academy partners share our commitment to empowering diverse and underrepresented communities through the tourism economy, which is fueled by unlocking the economic opportunities of hosting.In 2023, hosts in the US earned more than $24 billion and the typical host earned an estimated $14,000 by welcoming visitors to their community.

Academy courses

Academy 1.0: Intro to hosting on Airbnb

You’ll get a basic intro to Airbnb and the opportunity of hosting, as well as top tips from a successful Superhost. You’ll also get access to resources to support you along the way.

Academy 2.0: Advanced hosting

You’ll learn how to take your hosting to the next level by optimizing the content of your listing, enhancing your guests’ experience and creating peer-to-peer links with fellow hosts.

Preparing for big events in your area

You’ll focus on the opportunities created by major events and how to make the most of them, while learning from a seasoned Superhost.

Intro to hosting for people with disabilities

This course provides an intro to hosting on Airbnb, with input from a Superhost. You'll also learn how to use Airbnb's product innovations to showcase the accessibility features in your home to help welcome guests with disabilities and accessibility needs.

Browse upcoming Academy workshops Browse upcoming Academy workshops

The Airbnb Academy in action

“The inspiration shared during the Academy from several Superhosts and Airbnb ambassadors is the fuel that continues to inspire my unique Glamping Dome launch on our Haliwa-Saponi Native American rural North Carolina family farm. Thanks to Airbnb for supporting and inspiring rural entrepreneurship via the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy.”

Eva, Airbnb Academy alumna Eva, Airbnb Academy alumna

"Through the Academy I have not only gained the knowledge and skills to become a Superhost on Airbnb but also unlock the true potential of my entrepreneurial spirit. It has empowered me to create a thriving business that not only benefits myself but also fosters economic growth within my community."

Melody, Airbnb Academy alumna Melody, Airbnb Academy alumna

Partnering with us

Airbnb partners with leading civic, economic empowerment, and government groups to share education and best practices around hosting. The Academy program leverages the resources and reach of Airbnb with the professional and cultural expertise of local partners, equipping individuals with the skills to become a successful host and gain a range of transferable skills. Each Academy partner shares our commitment to empowering diverse and underrepresented communities through the tourism economy, which is fueled by unlocking the economic opportunities of hosting.

Partner with us

Our partners

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"The Hispanic Wealth Project is thrilled to partner with Airbnb on this vital initiative. This program aligns closely with our aim to empower community members by providing the skills and resources needed to foster economic growth and opportunity for Hispanic entrepreneurs. Our collaboration with Airbnb strengthens our ability to build wealth and create a more inclusive and prosperous future for all."- Sara Rodriguez, Chairperson, Hispanic Wealth Project

“Partnering with Airbnb furthers our goal of expanding Black wealth. Our relationship empowers NAREB members and our communities by introducing them to the hosting industry, and new opportunities to gain wealth through real estate. We look forward to this collaboration continuing to benefit our members, consumers, and Black communities.”- Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, President, National Association of Real Estate Brokers

"National Disability Institute (NDI) recognizes the transformative potential of our partnership with Airbnb through the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy. This collaboration empowers individuals with disabilities by providing essential skills and knowledge to become successful hosts, thereby enhancing economic mobility and fostering community growth. By learning about hosting opportunities, participants not only gain financial independence, but also contribute to a more inclusive tourism landscape, benefiting disability-owned small businesses and driving economic growth within all communities. NDI and Airbnb are committed to creating pathways that enable all individuals to thrive and participate fully in the economy."- Thomas Foley, NDI Executive Director

“Airbnb shares our commitment to making worldwide travel accessible for wheelchair users, including identifying lodgings with accessibility features at their destinations. We are excited to co-host the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy, as it will provide interested wheelchair users with the tools and knowledge they need to become successful hosts.” - Vincenzo Piscopo, United Spinal Association CEO