Travel Startups and Innovation News

PhocusWire's in-depth coverage of the startups in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry, featuring news, analysis, interviews, research and more.

Startups are a powerful force driving innovation across the travel industry—from AI-driven personalization and fintech solutions to next-gen mobility and booking platforms. PhocusWire delivers the most relevant travel startups and innovation news, spotlighting emerging companies that are rethinking the way people search, book, and experience travel.

Emerging travel startups and innovations driving the industry forward

Our coverage highlights breakthrough ideas, early-stage funding rounds, and strategic partnerships that bring fresh energy to the travel ecosystem. Whether it's reshaping trip planning, optimizing operations, or solving pain points across the journey, travel startups are challenging incumbents and building the future of travel with agility and purpose.

BusUp accelerates away with $6M in funding
News / Startups
BusUp accelerates away with $6M in funding
By Linda Fox | February 11, 2021
BusUp is looking to expand in the U.S. and sees growing demand for commuter mobility services from... Read More
Lufthansa Innovation Hub spins off mobility startup RYDES, Porsche acquires stake
News / Startups
Lufthansa Innovation Hub spins off mobility startup RYDES, Porsche acquires stake
By Linda Fox | February 11, 2021
Lufthansa Group and Porsche are now minority stakeholders in the startup, with Porsche’s... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Imagine Experiences wants to bring unique tours to locals and tourists
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Imagine Experiences wants to bring unique tours to locals and tourists
By Linda Fox | February 11, 2021
The company has put together a network of expert tour guides to help design fresh ideas to attract... Read More
getaway-42M-funding
News / Startups
Certares leads $42M Series C for cabin-rental platform Getaway
By Mitra Sorrells | February 8, 2021
Getaway says it had 150% year-over-year growth in 2020 and plans to rapidly expand.... Read More
Go2Joy raises $2.3M in Series A+ round
News / Startups
Go2Joy raises $2.3M in Series A+ round
By Linda Fox | February 8, 2021
Vietnam-based hotel booking specialist Go2Joy plans to use its Series A+ funding for sales and... Read More
timeshifter-2-million
News / Startups
Jet-lag app Timeshifter raises $2M as it launches new product for shift workers
By Mitra Sorrells | February 5, 2021
The company has partnerships with travel brands including Tripadvisor, Travelperk, SAP Concur, CWT and... Read More
Sounding Off: Why startups should be careful with their roadmaps
Interview / Startups
Sounding Off: Why startups should be careful with their roadmaps
By PhocusWire | February 5, 2021
Thankfully, the sector has (mostly) moved on from the days of the "travel is totally broken - we're... Read More
startup-stage-youtip
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Youtip provides digital tipping for hotels, tour operators and more
By Mitra Sorrells | January 29, 2021
Users scan QR codes or tap links in email or text messages to access the payment system.... Read More
Bbot adds $4M to seed round for hospitality ordering tech
News / Startups
Bbot adds $4M to seed round for hospitality ordering tech
By Linda Fox | January 27, 2021
Bbot will put the funds towards product development including the release of an API.... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: MakeYourTripBetter is a collaborative platform connecting travelers with locals
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: MakeYourTripBetter is a collaborative platform connecting travelers with locals
By Jill Menze | January 27, 2021
MakeYourTripBetter is a free, collaborative platform connecting travelers with locals to get tips and... Read More
Sponsored Content
From Our Partners
Precision and predictability for travel marketing: Essential visitor intelligence to drive growth
September 9, 2025
Precision and predictability for travel marketing: Essential visitor intelligence to drive growth
 In partnership with Zartico, this video series explores the latest trends and delivers practical... Read More
Get real: The power of combining AI with authentic intelligence
August 19, 2025
Get real: The power of combining AI with authentic intelligence
Chris Hemmeter from Thayer Investment Partners outlines his thoughts on the importance of balancing AI... Read More
Changing traveler patterns, evolving customer needs drive demand for travel insurance
May 6, 2025
Changing traveler patterns, evolving customer needs drive demand for travel insurance
Travel protection is bringing peace of mind for travelers and positive rewards for suppliers.... Read More