Hotelbeds
is partnering with
Wayra
, the innovation hub of Telefonica, to set up the
TravelTech Lab
by Hotelbeds.
The two companies plan to work together, as well as with startups, over the next 15 months to uncover technology that changes how we travel.
Simultaneously, Hotelbeds and Wayra have unveiled a startup challenge that is seeking “entrepreneurs with business plans to connect global travel ecosystem stakeholders and create a frictionless experience for the traveler.”
According to a release, startups that join the lab can access grants worth up to €40,000 and take advantage of business development support from both companies.
Nicolas Huss, CEO of Hotelbeds, says: “We have seen the ecosystem changing recently and have been actively working to reduce friction across the full travel spectrum. Now, joining forces with Wayra is an exciting opportunity to accelerate these plans.”
Wayra has supported a number of travel startups including MyTripCar, Viajala,
Avuxi
and MyTwinPlace with investment and or participation in its accelerator.
Hotel entertainment specialist
Roomnet also recently launched an innovation lab
and said it planned to test and integrate technology that will shape the hotels of the future.