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.

Tracking travel startup investment trends in 2021
News / Startups
Tracking travel startup investment trends in 2021
By Linda Fox | December 15, 2021
Standout sectors attracting investment in 2021 include alternative accommodation and ground... Read More
The best How I Got Here episodes in 2021
News / Startups
The best How I Got Here episodes in 2021
By PhocusWire | December 13, 2021
Each show features an entrepreneur or innovator in their respective field, covering startups and... Read More
Anu-Hariharan-y-combinator
News / Startups
VIDEO: Why too much cash can lead to startup failure
By PhocusWire | December 10, 2021
At The Phocuswright Conference, Altimeter Capital’s Brad Gerstner and YC Continuity’s Anu Hariharan... Read More
VIDEO: Amadeus on recovery trends and startup areas to watch
News / Startups
VIDEO: Amadeus on recovery trends and startup areas to watch
By PhocusWire | December 9, 2021
Seasonality as been impacted and a much later decision process on destinations from consumers is a new... Read More
Casai expands in Brazil, acquires Roomin
News / Startups
Casai expands in Brazil, acquires Roomin
By Linda Fox | December 8, 2021
Roomin, which is also a property technology specialist, gives Casai a presence in Brazil leisure... Read More
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
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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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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