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.

Hotel Manager lands £1M for modular hotel tech platform
News / Startups
Hotel Manager lands £1M for modular hotel tech platform
By Linda Fox | December 14, 2022
Fuel Ventures led the investment in the U.K.-based company while Pitchdrive VC, CORE angels Lisbon,... Read More
vervotech-phocuswright-launch
Interview / Startups
Video: Vervotech - Phocuswright Conference Launch innovator
By PhocusWire | December 13, 2022
Founded in 2018, Vervotech wants to simplify the complex hotel distribution industry with its... Read More
Tough 2022 for travel startups as investors turn cautious
News / Startups
Tough 2022 for travel startups as investors turn cautious
By Linda Fox | December 12, 2022
Early stage rounds in particular have been highlighted as impacted by the more conservative approach... Read More
cabana funding round
News / Startups
Cabana fuels growth with $3M in fresh funding
By Kathryn Walson | December 9, 2022
Founded in 2019, the “mobile hotel” company was named a PhocusWire Hot 25 Startup for 2022.... Read More
selfbook-amex-ventures
News / Startups
American Express invests in hotel payment startup Selfbook
By Mitra Sorrells | December 8, 2022
Along with the investment, Selfbook says it is exploring collaboration with American Express on things... Read More
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
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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