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.

CitySwift receives €7 million in funding
News / Startups
CitySwift receives €7 million in funding
By Morgan Hines | February 1, 2024
The funding was led by Gresham House Ventures. The round was backed by existing investors Irelandia... Read More
Travel tech fund targets €50M to invest in European startups
News / Startups
Travel tech fund targets €50M to invest in European startups
By Linda Fox | February 1, 2024
TravelTech.vc has launched its second fund and is eyeing growth stage startups in Europe that help... Read More
Joyned receives $8M in funding
News / Startups
Joyned receives $8M in funding
By Morgan Hines | January 31, 2024
Joyned enables online travel agencies, hotels and other booking sites to offer group travel planning... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Hostshare lets short-term rental hosts trade unbooked nights
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Hostshare lets short-term rental hosts trade unbooked nights
By Mitra Sorrells | January 30, 2024
Hostshare membership is $395 per year and gives hosts up to 21 nights of stays at other properties... Read More
TravelPerk adds $104M to launch new business travel services
News / Startups
TravelPerk adds $104M to launch new business travel services
By Linda Fox | January 23, 2024
TravelPerk plans to put the funds towards boosting its platform with new inventory capabilities as... Read More
Daytrip drives off with $10M for expansion of door-to-door platform
News / Startups
Daytrip drives off with $10M for expansion of door-to-door platform
By Linda Fox | January 23, 2024
The funding will go towards further development of the platform as well as expanding into new... Read More
Middle East business travel platform Tumodo raises $35M
News / Startups
Middle East business travel platform Tumodo raises $35M
By Mitra Sorrells | January 22, 2024
Founded in 2023, Tumodo said it already works with 100 companies in the MENA region and aims to expand... Read More
Travel investors on the funding dynamics in 2024
News / Startups
Travel investors on the funding dynamics in 2024
By Linda Fox | January 22, 2024
Travel investors Derive Ventures and Inovia share insight on the funding landscape for 2024 with... Read More
UAE’s Silkhaus closes multi-million pre-series A financing
News / Startups
UAE’s Silkhaus closes multi-million pre-series A financing
By Derek Catron | January 18, 2024
The Dubai-based proptech startup raised the undisclosed financing from San Francisco-based Partners... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: FlyMeOut is an invitation-only "social travel" club
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: FlyMeOut is an invitation-only "social travel" club
By Mitra Sorrells | January 17, 2024
FlyMeOut is an invitation-only travel matchmaking-platform that brings together people with shared... 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
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Get real: The power of combining AI with authentic intelligence
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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