Travel Tech Investment Is on Unstable Ground: Here's What Industry Pros Say

Opinions vary widely about the state of investment in the travel tech startup world during this uncertain economic time, but one thing is for sure: it’s changing.

Below are some of the main takeaways from startup mentors, investors, and founders about what is happening and how they’re dealing with it. 

Dropping Valuations

Startup valuations got out of control for a bit, some would say. Now, the proverbial punch bowl has been taken away, and people are sobering up as valuations are returning to normal. 

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it’s time for startup founders to accept the truth, said Cara Whitehill, an industry advisor and investor and the founder of Unlock Advisors.

“What that means is that you've got a class of founders who have never experienced anything other than that. They've never really had to worry about the fundraising and financing aspect of their business, and now they're having to do that," Whitehill said.  

The advice she is giving to early stage startups:

“Don't focus so much on valuations right now; you'll spin yourself in circles. The VCs are getting a little pickier, and they're doing a lot more due diligence. Optimize for getting the round closed so that you can get the