ABSTRACT
This paper examines how external interventions, in the form of research and/or science communication, can act as mediators for innovation in times of crisis in the tourism industry. Based on three case studies, it discusses the extent to which the Corona crisis could represent a window of opportunity for innovative business models in tourism. The project results prove that crises and scientific communication can act as push factors to promote innovation;however, the project partners did develop innovations during the project period but increasingly postponed its implementation to an indefinite future. Furthermore, the associated return to the status quo meant that the innovations triggered remained largely at a conceptual level. This points to an attitude-behavior gap regarding the creation and implementation of innovations in times of crisis.