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.

STARTUP STAGE: Rootze compares transport options for travelers to stay in budget
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Rootze compares transport options for travelers to stay in budget
By Linda Fox | February 6, 2020
France-based Rootze, led by founder and CEO Sophie Pastol, helps travelers find and compare transport... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: OffWeGo streamlines safety features for traveling students
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: OffWeGo streamlines safety features for traveling students
By Steven Lerner | February 3, 2020
OffWeGo is a student-centric solution addressing the large information gap while students are... Read More
Voyager HQ, Fareportal launch new travel innovation lab
News / Startups
Voyager HQ, Fareportal launch new travel innovation lab
By Steven Lerner | January 30, 2020
Startup club Voyager HQ is introducing a new labs program with travel technology company Fareportal... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Roost matches travelers with roommates to cut hotel costs in half
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Roost matches travelers with roommates to cut hotel costs in half
By Steven Lerner | January 30, 2020
Roost is a website that helps travelers find compatible roommates to share hotel rooms and split the... Read More
Are venture capitalists consciously focusing on sustainability in travel?
News / Startups
Are venture capitalists consciously focusing on sustainability in travel?
By Steven Lerner | January 28, 2020
Although sustainability is gaining momentum among investors, is it advancing in travel?  ... Read More
bounce scooters
News / Startups
Mobility startup Bounce raises $105M on the path to electric vehicle expansion
By Steven Lerner | January 28, 2020
Bike and scooter rental company Bounce is developing its own fleet of electric vehicles with the help... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Balance Holidays curates bespoke retreats for eco-conscious travelers
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Balance Holidays curates bespoke retreats for eco-conscious travelers
By Jill Menze | January 27, 2020
Balance Holidays specializes in bespoke wellbeing retreats in natural locations. ... Read More
life-house-30-million
News / Startups
Software-driven hotel brand Life House raises $30M, led by Thayer Ventures
By Mitra Sorrells | January 24, 2020
The Series B round will be used to grow Life House's boutique hotels business and management services.... Read More
Comtravo gets Microsoft venture fund on board with €9M round
News / Startups
Comtravo gets Microsoft venture fund on board with €9M round
By Linda Fox | January 14, 2020
The investment comes from Microsoft’s venture fund M12 and Joop Drechsel, former CEO of BCD... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Wayfarer Points changes travel loyalty programs through gamification
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Wayfarer Points changes travel loyalty programs through gamification
By Steven Lerner | January 13, 2020
Wayfarer Points is a portal that connects travelers with non-public deals.... Read More
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