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.

“Founder mode” or "manager mode"? Travel execs weigh in on leadership styles
News / Startups
“Founder mode” or "manager mode"? Travel execs weigh in on leadership styles
By Morgan Hines | September 18, 2024
Travel leaders share their take on recent comments from Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky about the management... Read More
Mayfair invests $35M in BizAway
News / Startups
Mayfair invests $35M in BizAway
By Mileva Sapic | September 16, 2024
BizAway plans to implement new AI and data strategies and develop additional products that will help... Read More
Host & Stay receives £10.5M to support “buy-and-build” strategy
News / Startups
Host & Stay receives £10.5M to support “buy-and-build” strategy
By Morgan Hines | September 5, 2024
With the backing of Growth Partner, Host & Stay’s “buy-and-build” strategy will have immediate... Read More
Tour Amigo raises $2M in seed funding to boost growth
News / Startups
Tour Amigo raises $2M in seed funding to boost growth
By Morgan Hines | September 4, 2024
The B2B SaaS company will use the funding to speed software development and expand into North America,... Read More
Lufthansa seeks startup partnerships, spins out Cosmos platform
News / Startups
Lufthansa seeks startup partnerships, spins out Cosmos platform
By Linda Fox | August 30, 2024
The hub has unveiled “Startup Gate,” a venture clienting platform to connect Lufthansa Group with... Read More
Steve Singh's latest business travel startup lands $6M for AI agent
News / Startups
Steve Singh's latest business travel startup lands $6M for AI agent
By Linda Fox | August 22, 2024
Singh will serve as executive chairman of Otto, which is creating an AI-powered travel assistant to... Read More
Besty AI lands $1.5M to drive guest communications platform forward
News / Startups
Besty AI lands $1.5M to drive guest communications platform forward
By Linda Fox | August 22, 2024
The funds will be used for further growth with plans to enhance platform and double the size of the... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: JrnyOn empowers creators to travel with their audiences
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: JrnyOn empowers creators to travel with their audiences
By Mileva Sapic | August 20, 2024
JrnyOn empowers creators to travel with their audiences without the logistical burden and provide... Read More
Meet the 10 winners of the 2024 Phocuswright/WiT Global Startup Pitch
News / Startups
Meet the 10 winners of the 2024 Phocuswright/WiT Global Startup Pitch
By PhocusWire | August 15, 2024
The next round of the competition will take place at WiT Singapore, October 14-16, where the audience... Read More
India-based all-electric Fresh Bus raises $10.5M for expansion
News / Startups
India-based all-electric Fresh Bus raises $10.5M for expansion
By Mitra Sorrells | August 13, 2024
Founded in 2023, Fresh Bus operates on intercity routes in India along with a digital-first... Read More
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Precision and predictability for travel marketing: Essential visitor intelligence to drive growth
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