Everything AI in Travel chats to Bethany Reitsma of the Travel Tech Association about startup funding in the age of AI

<p>In this episode of the Everything AI in Travel podcast, Tony Carne sits down with Bethany Reitsma from the Travel Technology Association to explore the fast-changing world of travel tech startups, AI-native companies, angel investing, and the future of innovation in travel.</p><p>Bethany shares how the Travel Technology Association evolved from representing major industry players like Booking, Expedia, and TripAdvisor into building a growing startup ecosystem focused on helping founders get connected, get advice, and get funded.</p><p>They discuss:</p><ul><li>Why AI-native travel startups are emerging faster than ever</li><li>The challenge of fundraising in travel tech today</li><li>How angel investors are approaching AI and travel startups</li><li>Why proprietary data and integrations matter more than ever</li><li>The rise of hyper-personalized travel experiences</li><li>How Travel Tech Association helps founders connect with investors</li><li>The importance of founder communities and peer learning</li><li>Emerging startups like Drifter AI and Pintours AI</li><li>How AI is changing travel discovery and trip planning</li><li>Why travel startups can now build more with less funding</li></ul><p>Whether you’re building a travel startup, investing in travel technology, or simply trying to understand where AI is taking the industry next, this conversation offers a valuable inside look at one of the most important ecosystems shaping travel innovation.</p><p>Guest: Bethany Reitsma<br>Organization: Travel Technology Association</p>