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.

Sounding Off: Startups should think big but think realistically
Interview / Startups
Sounding Off: Startups should think big but think realistically
By PhocusWire | February 21, 2020
Before heading down the startup path with aspirations of disruption, hold onto the vision, but open... Read More
bacarai act II cover
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE - ACT II: Bacarai reflects on past year's challenges, new funding expedition
By Steven Lerner | February 21, 2020
Bacarai discusses its new vice president of technology, the launch of new funding rounds and future... Read More
Lessons learned from a failed travel loyalty startup
News / Startups
Lessons learned from a failed travel loyalty startup
By Steven Lerner | February 20, 2020
Without the cooperation or support of hotels, airlines, banks or credit card companies, developing a... Read More
toristy-tours-activities
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Toristy wants to make it easier for travelers to find local experiences
By Linda Fox | February 19, 2020
Toristy recently received a funding round, which it will devote towards speeding up its white label... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Amenitiz helps independent hotels tackle a digital world
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Amenitiz helps independent hotels tackle a digital world
By Steven Lerner | February 18, 2020
Amenitiz is an all-in-one platform that allows independent hoteliers and vacation rental owners to... Read More
Where are the new openings for startups in the travel industry?
Opinion / Startups
Where are the new openings for startups in the travel industry?
By Suzanna Chiu - Amadeus Ventures | February 17, 2020
There are three key areas where there are still plenty of opportunities for companies to bring some... Read More
Sounding Off: Startups should consider giving something away for the greater good
Interview / Startups
Sounding Off: Startups should consider giving something away for the greater good
By PhocusWire | February 14, 2020
Peak Kayak and its investment/acquisition policy might seem alien to many startups or growing... Read More
holibob-tour-activity-marketplace-startup
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Holibob is a marketplace connecting activity suppliers with resellers
By Mitra Sorrells | February 13, 2020
Holibob is a B2B marketplace for tours and experiences that provides resellers such as airlines,... Read More
rubiq cover
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: RubiQ manages flight disruptions to help airlines retain customers, reduce costs
By Steven Lerner | February 10, 2020
RubiQ provides AI technology for airlines to help passengers self-manage flight disruptions.... Read More
atpi-endeavour-startups
News / Startups
ATPI unveils venture arm for corporate travel startups focused on UX
By Linda Fox | February 10, 2020
Corporate travel company ATPI has unveiled an initiative called Endeavour to invest in travel startups... Read More
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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
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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