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.

cruisebound-launch-10m
News / Startups
New online cruise booking site launches with $10M from prominent investors
By Mitra Sorrells | January 18, 2023
After a year of beta testing, Cruisebound is launching with backing from former Priceline CEO Jeff... Read More
Chooose raises $15M for sustainability platform expansion
News / Startups
Chooose raises $15M for sustainability platform expansion
By Linda Fox | January 13, 2023
The investment in the Norway-based company was led by climate-tech focused investors GenZero and... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Out of Office gives travel tips from friends and influencers
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Out of Office gives travel tips from friends and influencers
By Linda Fox | January 13, 2023
The Out of Office platform aggregates destinations, hotels, restaurants and more based on the user's... Read More
hotelmize-12-million
News / Startups
Profit optimization solution Hotelmize raises $12M
By Mitra Sorrells | January 11, 2023
Hotelmize uses its artificial intelligence and room mapping technology to monitor fluctuations in... Read More
Former Expedia exec wants to reward people for exploring the world
News / Startups
Former Expedia exec wants to reward people for exploring the world
By Linda Fox | January 10, 2023
HyperSQ wants to reward travelers for traveling and create a more targeted approach to marketing for... Read More
fractal-homes-30m
News / Startups
Second-home ownership startup offering "hotel-like" stays raises $30M
By Mitra Sorrells | January 9, 2023
Fractal Homes is starting with properties in the United Kingdom and says it provides its owners... Read More
Away Together main 2
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Away Together aims to elevate guest experience
By Kathryn Walson | January 9, 2023
The Away Together platform allows for accommodations to communicate with their guests as well as for... Read More
Sustainable travel BookSmart24
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: BookSmart24 helps travelers book sustainable trips
By Kathryn Walson | January 4, 2023
The BookSmart24 app equips travelers with the information they need to select the most eco-friendly... Read More
scholarship startups
News / Startups
Startups Lucia and BLCK forge ahead with scholarship backing
By Kathryn Walson | December 23, 2022
Samella Watson and Grace McBride talk about how the Philip C. Wolf Memorial Scholarship, including... Read More
Video: Rezme - Phocuswright Conference Launch innovator
Interview / Startups
Video: Rezme - Phocuswright Conference Launch innovator
By Kathryn Walson | December 21, 2022
Rezme's Cherry is a browser extension app and mobile app that intercepts users on online travel agency... Read More
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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
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August 19, 2025
Get real: The power of combining AI with authentic intelligence
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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