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.

Easol lands $25M for experiences tech platform
News / Startups
Easol lands $25M for experiences tech platform
By Linda Fox | December 8, 2021
The investment was led by Tiger Global and follows seed funding of $4.5 million announced earlier this... Read More
VIDEO: ReTravel Technologies - Summit pitch at Phocuswright Conference 2021
Interview / Startups
VIDEO: ReTravel Technologies - Summit pitch at Phocuswright Conference 2021
By PhocusWire | December 8, 2021
ReTravel is an autonomous cross-selling technology for the travel industry designed to maximize... Read More
VIDEO: NoiseAware - Summit pitch at Phocuswright Conference 2021
Interview / Startups
VIDEO: NoiseAware - Summit pitch at Phocuswright Conference 2021
By PhocusWire | December 7, 2021
A sensor + software platform developed to measure noise levels, detect sustained disruptive noise, and... Read More
VIDEO: MyStay - Summit pitch at Phocuswright Conference 2021
Interview / Startups
VIDEO: MyStay - Summit pitch at Phocuswright Conference 2021
By PhocusWire | December 6, 2021
85% of guests are asking for a new concept of reception based on contactless access, so why there are... Read More
selina-ipo-spac
News / Startups
Selina plots public listing via SPAC
By Linda Fox | December 3, 2021
Selina, which was launched in 2015, is combining with existing SPAC New York-based BOA Acquisition... Read More
convious-series-a
News / Startups
Attractions e-commerce platform Convious nabs $12M for expansion
By Mitra Sorrells | December 3, 2021
Founded in 2017, Convious says it currently works with more than 125 theme parks, museums, zoos and... Read More
VIDEO: Local Purse - Summit pitch at Phocuswright Conference 2021
Interview / Startups
VIDEO: Local Purse - Summit pitch at Phocuswright Conference 2021
By PhocusWire | December 3, 2021
Web-based platform which supports travel guides, local artisans, and cultural vendors by using live... Read More
Hotel Engine secures $65M for innovation and recruitment
News / Startups
Hotel Engine secures $65M for innovation and recruitment
By Linda Fox | December 2, 2021
The investment in Hotel Engine, which was led by existing investor Telescope Partners with... Read More
kayak-leads-life-house-seriesc
News / Startups
Kayak leads $60M Series C for Life House
By Mitra Sorrells | December 2, 2021
Life House and Kayak have been working together since last spring with the opening of Kayak Miami... Read More
youtrip-payments-funding
News / Startups
YouTrip eyes B2B payments following $30M funding round
By Linda Fox | December 2, 2021
Singapore-based YouTrip says its app has been downloaded more than 1.5 million times and that it has... 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