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.

Bird boosts U.S. micromobility presence with acquisition of Spin
News / Startups
Bird boosts U.S. micromobility presence with acquisition of Spin
By Linda Fox | September 20, 2023
Bird has paid $19M for Spin, which it acquired from Germany-based Tier Mobility.... Read More
State of startup fundraising: Do you need venture capital?
Opinion / Startups
State of startup fundraising: Do you need venture capital?
By Cara Whitehill – Unlock Advisors | September 18, 2023
During a tough year for travel startups, investor and advisor Cara Whitehill offers insight into... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Tango targets “mass affluent” travelers with AI-based booking platform
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Tango targets “mass affluent” travelers with AI-based booking platform
By Mitra Sorrells | September 11, 2023
Tango combines artificial intelligence, machine learning and human curation to provide design, booking... Read More
Travel executive launches new marketplace for adventure travel
News / Startups
Travel executive launches new marketplace for adventure travel
By Derek Catron | September 11, 2023
Headed by Drew Patterson, formerly with Kayak, Jetsetter, Room 77 and Transparent, Thermal is a... Read More
Generative AI trip planning startup MindTrip raises $7M
News / Startups
Generative AI trip planning startup MindTrip raises $7M
By Morgan Hines | September 8, 2023
MindTrip, set to go public in beta before year's end, seeks to help travelers discover, book and plan... Read More
Point.me raises $10M to boost partnerships and expand concierge service
News / Startups
Point.me raises $10M to boost partnerships and expand concierge service
By Linda Fox | September 5, 2023
Point.me enables loyalty program members to find flights using their points via its proprietary... Read More
Modern Adventure to expand travel offering after $4.8M investment
News / Startups
Modern Adventure to expand travel offering after $4.8M investment
By Linda Fox | August 31, 2023
Certified B Corp Modern Adventure is looking to boost its head count and improve the customer... Read More
Snowfall acquires group travel app AmigoGo
News / Startups
Snowfall acquires group travel app AmigoGo
By Linda Fox | August 30, 2023
AmigoGo founders Nick Castrioty and Josh Sparkes are bringing their technology expertise to Snowfall.... Read More
Travel investors remain bullish despite headwinds
News / Startups
Travel investors remain bullish despite headwinds
By Mitra Sorrells | August 28, 2023
Ennea Capital Partners' Andy Nau and Unlock Advisors' Cara Whitehill discuss where they see... Read More
5 startups advance to Grand Finals in Phocuswright/WiT global pitch
News / Startups
5 startups advance to Grand Finals in Phocuswright/WiT global pitch
By PhocusWire | August 24, 2023
The Global Startup Pitch is part of an ongoing commitment from Phocuswright and WiT to cultivate... Read More
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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
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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