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.

Welcome to the Hot 25 Startups for 2020
News / Startups
Welcome to the Hot 25 Startups for 2020
By PhocusWire / Voyager HQ | November 18, 2019
We're excited to highlight the next wave of companies that have shown potential to break through in... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Whispr wants to help frontline staff with voice guidance
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Whispr wants to help frontline staff with voice guidance
By Linda Fox | November 15, 2019
The company was recently accepted into IAG's Hangar 51 accelerator and has begun work with maintenance... Read More
Refundit pockets $9.8M for its digital VAT refund service
News / Startups
Refundit pockets $9.8M for its digital VAT refund service
By Linda Fox | November 15, 2019
Amadeus Ventures led the round, with participation also coming from Portugal Ventures and a... Read More
startup-stage-cruise-director
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: CruiseDirector creates new online platform for booking no-fee luxury cruises
By Mitra Sorrells | November 13, 2019
CruiseDirector is an online platform for travelers to book luxury ocean, river, yacht and expedition... Read More
In the green room at Phocuswright with... Chris Hemmeter
Interview / Startups
In the green room at Phocuswright with... Chris Hemmeter
By PhocusWire | November 12, 2019
In a series of interviews with executives participating at the event in Florida in November,... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: CertiStay certifies the safety and security of vacation rentals
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: CertiStay certifies the safety and security of vacation rentals
By Mitra Sorrells | November 11, 2019
CertiStay, backed by a team that includes industry veteran Terry Jones, provides safety and... Read More
The Phocuswright Conference 2019 preview - Outside forces may correct travel startup growth
News / Startups
The Phocuswright Conference 2019 preview - Outside forces may correct travel startup growth
By PhocusWire | November 1, 2019
The figures are extraordinary, in many respects - there was a 55% increase year-over-year ($5.7... Read More
singapore-tourism-accelerator
News / Startups
Singapore Tourism Board opens accelerator to improve the visitor experience
By Linda Fox | October 31, 2019
Singapore Tourism has announced the first cohort of startups for its accelerator which has been set up... Read More
In the green room at Phocuswright with... Tedd Evers
Interview / Startups
In the green room at Phocuswright with... Tedd Evers
October 30, 2019
Continuing our series chatting to execs participating in the Phocuswright Conference in November, meet... Read More
STARTUP STAGE:  Wheel the World wants to make travel more accessible
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Wheel the World wants to make travel more accessible
By Linda Fox | October 24, 2019
As part of its bid to open up travel in more destinations, the company carries out accessibility... Read More
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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