June 19, 2025

What Travel Startup Investors Are Looking for Now

39 minutes

Hosts Sarah Kopit and Seth Borko are joined on today's Skift Travel Podcast with Kevin Tsang, Managing Director at Amex Ventures. They discuss the future of travel, the impact of AI, and investment strategies in the travel sector through the lens of venture investment. They explore the role of technology in enhancing travel experiences, the potential of AI startups, and the importance of specialization in a competitive market. The conversation also touches on consumer pain points in aviation and how Amex Ventures evaluates opportunities in this space.

Takeaways

Amex Ventures focuses on strategic investments in travel and technology.

AI is transforming the travel sector and enhancing user experiences.

Travel tech must address unique complexities of the travel journey.

Food is increasingly integrated into travel planning.

Investment strategies balance market trends and company objectives.

AI startups need a strong value proposition to secure funding.

Vertical AI solutions can create efficiencies in travel.

Consumer experience is a priority for travel investments.

AI is enabling more efficient manual tasks in startups.

MindTrip is an innovative travel planning platform leveraging AI.

Investment in Boom Supersonic reflects a future-focused travel vision.

Travel venture capital is limited due to broader investment strategies.

Global travel startups offer unique innovation opportunities.

Partnerships with major players can enhance startup success.

Success metrics for startups are evolving towards profitability and market fit.

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