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.

karshare-funding
News / Startups
European car-sharing platform Karshare raises £3M for expansion
By Mitra Sorrells | August 9, 2021
Karshare says its revenue has increased 45% month-to-month across Bristol, Manchester, Coventry and... Read More
Voi adds $45M investment for e-scooter expansion and tech development
News / Startups
Voi adds $45M investment for e-scooter expansion and tech development
By Linda Fox | August 9, 2021
E-scooter company Voi initially announced its Series C round of $160 million in December 2020.... Read More
frontdesk-7m-funding
News / Startups
Urban short-term rental company Frontdesk raises $7M
By Mitra Sorrells | August 5, 2021
Frontdesk plans to continue its aggressive growth plan, with an aim to double its portfolio... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: TravelRank guides travelers to new destinations via AI
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: TravelRank guides travelers to new destinations via AI
By Linda Fox | August 4, 2021
TravelRank's AI analyzes the user's travel history and compares it to data of similar travelers and... Read More
Exoticca lands $30M investment to develop packages platform
News / Startups
Exoticca lands $30M investment to develop packages platform
By Linda Fox | July 30, 2021
Multi-day packages operator Exoticca has now raised a total of $53 million.... Read More
WiT Startup Pitch to offer $250,000 of AWS credits and support
News / Startups
WiT Startup Pitch to offer $250,000 of AWS credits and support
By WiT | July 29, 2021
WiT’s annual Startup Pitch is back, bolstered by the continuing collaboration with Amazon Web Services... Read More
Charting the rise of SPACs in online travel
News / Startups
Charting the rise of SPACs in online travel
By Linda Fox | July 27, 2021
About eight travel companies have exited via special purpose acquisition company in recent months, as... Read More
Bbot lands $15M for hospitality ordering and payment service
News / Startups
Bbot lands $15M for hospitality ordering and payment service
By Linda Fox | July 22, 2021
The latest raise brings Bbot's total to just over $22 million following a $4 million investment... Read More
modihost-startup-stage
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: ModiHost is a hotel management system using AI and blockchain
By Mitra Sorrells | July 22, 2021
ModiHost is a hotel management system that uses artificial intelligence to personalize the guest... Read More
phocuswright-europe-female-founders
News / Startups
VIDEO: Tracking the journey for women founders in travel
By PhocusWire | July 19, 2021
Three women who have created travel companies discuss their personal experiences and the role of... Read More
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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
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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