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.

SquadTrip platform for travel pros
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: SquadTrip’s all-in-one platform streamlines trip planning
By Kathryn Walson | January 25, 2023
SquadTrip provides an SaaS trip booking and marketing platform for group travel organizers and... Read More
Isprava raises $19.5M for luxury home development and rentals
News / Startups
Isprava raises $19.5M for luxury home development and rentals
By Linda Fox | January 25, 2023
The investment in the Mumbai-based company was led by Symphony International Holdings.... Read More
Grazzy lands $4.25M for hospitality payment and tipping platform
News / Startups
Grazzy lands $4.25M for hospitality payment and tipping platform
By Linda Fox | January 24, 2023
The investment from Next Coast Ventures and Tuesday Capital brings the company’s total seed round to... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Trustd.ai helps rentals filter out bad behaving guests
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Trustd.ai helps rentals filter out bad behaving guests
By Mitra Sorrells | January 23, 2023
The company uses AI to collect and analyze a mix of static and dynamic trust attributes related... Read More
onda-funding
News / Startups
South Korean hospitality tech startup raises $10M
By Derek Catron | January 20, 2023
Onda provides an integrated sales platform and property management system for hotels and vacation... Read More
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
Sponsored Content
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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
Get real: The power of combining AI with authentic intelligence
August 19, 2025
Get real: The power of combining AI with authentic intelligence
Chris Hemmeter from Thayer Investment Partners outlines his thoughts on the importance of balancing AI... Read More
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