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.

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
Co-living startup Gravity raises $1.4M to expand internationally
News / Startups
Co-living startup Gravity raises $1.4M to expand internationally
By Jill Menze | January 22, 2021
The London-based company says it has experienced a period of high growth despite the pandemic.... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: The Hospitality Gig aims to provide a talent pool of flexible workers to the industry
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: The Hospitality Gig aims to provide a talent pool of flexible workers to the industry
By Linda Fox | January 20, 2021
The startup is looking to connect people looking for flexible work, job shares or fractional roles... Read More
Mobility startup Meep hitches a ride with €4M round
News / Startups
Mobility startup Meep hitches a ride with €4M round
By Kevin May | January 19, 2021
The Series A funding round comes just over a year since a €1.5 million seed round into the... Read More
Expense management software SalesTrip raises $1.4M for U.S. expansion
News / Startups
Expense management software SalesTrip raises $1.4M for U.S. expansion
By Jill Menze | January 14, 2021
London-based SalesTrip will use the funds to scale operations in the United States, continue to build... Read More
Kambr adds $3M in funding to accelerate airline revenue tech development
News / Startups
Kambr adds $3M in funding to accelerate airline revenue tech development
By Linda Fox | January 13, 2021
The investment comes from private equity investors and aviation industry veteran Michael Scheeringa.... Read More
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 In partnership with Zartico, this video series explores the latest trends and delivers practical... Read More
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Travel protection is bringing peace of mind for travelers and positive rewards for suppliers.... Read More