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.

joyned-phocuswright-launch
Interview / Startups
Video: Joyned - Phocuswright Conference Launch Innovator
By PhocusWire | December 8, 2022
Joyned is a social commerce-as-a-service website add-on that enables people to chat live and book... Read More
Dondoo Startup Stage main 2
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Dondoo helps travelers navigate sensitive cultural interactions
By Kathryn Walson | December 8, 2022
Dondoo is a a web platform aimed at preventing awkward moments for travelers and promoting local... Read More
sion-travel-agents-tech
News / Startups
Sion secures $3.2M to help agents chase commission
By Linda Fox | December 7, 2022
The investment in the U.S.-based SaaS business was led by TIA Ventures with SmartFlyer and Virtuoso... Read More
AltoVita lands $9.5M in funding for corporate accommodation platform
News / Startups
AltoVita lands $9.5M in funding for corporate accommodation platform
By Linda Fox | December 2, 2022
The round, which is led by Novum Capital Partners and Fifth Wall, will go towards further expansion... Read More
resortpass-26m-funding
News / Startups
ResortPass lands $26M to expand "daycation" access globally
By Kathryn Walson | November 30, 2022
The round was co-led by Declaration Partners and 14W, with participation from existing lead investor... Read More
tripscout-launch-pc-22
Interview / Startups
Video: @Hotel - Phocuswright Conference Launch innovator
By PhocusWire | November 30, 2022
 @Hotel is a hotel booking platform for Instagram from Tripscout.... Read More
lilium-funding
News / Startups
Lilium bags $119M in post-IPO raise
By Linda Fox | November 28, 2022
The Germany-based electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft developer will use the capital to... Read More
ukio-seriesA-funding
News / Startups
Ukio scores €27M for European rentals expansion
By Linda Fox | November 23, 2022
The investment in the Spain-based business was led by Felix Capital, with Kreos Capital, Heartcore and... Read More
phocuswright-conference-innovation-winners
News / Startups
The Phocuswright Conference 2022 Innovation: Summit and Launch winners
By PhocusWire | November 17, 2022
Four startups came out on top in Phocuswright's Launch and Summit competitions at The Phocuswright... Read More
UAE startup Silkhaus raises $7.75M for short-term rental platform
News / Startups
UAE startup Silkhaus raises $7.75M for short-term rental platform
By Jill Menze | November 16, 2022
Founded in 2021, Silkhaus provides property owners with digital tools to monetize and manage their... 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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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