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.

Travel startup Nicer raises $2M to bring AI to travel advisors
News / Startups
Travel startup Nicer raises $2M to bring AI to travel advisors
By Mitra Sorrells | February 8, 2024
The startup launched last year and has several prominent advisors, including Microsoft's Shane... Read More
Cosmic Aerospace raises $4.5M for electric aircraft development
News / Startups
Cosmic Aerospace raises $4.5M for electric aircraft development
By PhocusWire | February 7, 2024
The electric aircraft startup will use the seed funding to advance technology for its zero-emission... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Triplay uses AI to create personalized travel itineraries
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Triplay uses AI to create personalized travel itineraries
By Mitra Sorrells | February 6, 2024
Triplay, launched in August 2023, uses algorithms to optimize suggested routes based on geodata,... Read More
Heart Aerospace lands $107M for hybrid-electric airplane
News / Startups
Heart Aerospace lands $107M for hybrid-electric airplane
By Linda Fox | February 2, 2024
The company plans to put the investment toward further development of the business as well as... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: MintPass helps travelers document journeys, inspire others
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: MintPass helps travelers document journeys, inspire others
By Morgan Hines | February 2, 2024
The goal of MintPass is to create a platform for travelers to document their adventures through... Read More
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
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