As part of the Northstar Global Travel Technology group, WiT and Phocuswright are kicking off 2022 with a round-the-world Global Startup Pitch.

This combined effort is the next evolution of a relentless, ongoing 25-year search for startups that disrupt, innovate and propel the travel industry forward.

WiT has been running startup competitions in the Asia Pacific region for more than 14 years while Phocuswright has been championing them since 2008 with events in Europe and the US. This global effort combines the strengths of both events to raise it to another level.

The Global Start Up Pitch 2022 will showcase the best of startups from six regions – North Asia, South Asia/ASEAN/Pacific, MENA (Middle East/North Africa), Europe, US/Canada and Latin America.

Two preliminary rounds will be held to arrive at six finalists, one each representing the different regions, who will then compete in the Grand Finals during WiT Singapore 2022, October 3-5, for the top prizes.

The winner will have the opportunity to present during The Phocuswright Conference in Phoenix, Arizona on November 14-17.

“The pandemic forced us to retreat to local corners but the startup world is a global one, united by common passion, purpose and perseverance. That’s why we are joining forces with Phocuswright to create an event that would bring everyone together on the same platform, and head for a common destination – that of WiT Singapore 2022 in October and The Phocuswright Conference on November 14-17,” said Yeoh Siew Hoon, founder, WiT.

“It is time to unite around innovation, which will underpin a stronger and better travel recovery.”

Said Pete Comeau, managing director, Phocuswright, “Entrepreneurs thrive during times of crisis, and tomorrow’s travel tech leaders are incubating products and solutions today during this challenging time. Phocuswright is thrilled to partner with WiT to uncover the most promising pre-funded, early-stage companies who are poised to lead our industry through the recovery and beyond, helping us emerge as a stronger, bolder and better industry.”

Said Robert Sullivan, president, Travel Group, “As the largest and most trusted B-to-B travel information services, data, events, and marketing solutions company in the world, Northstar is committed to the future of our industry. Combining our global research and tech teams to highlight innovation and new solutions is in our DNA. Together WIT and Phocuswright will host the travel industry’s most compelling startup competition in the world.”

Global Sponsors supporting this initiative to date are Amadeus IT and Yanolja Cloud. Regional sponsors include JetBlue Ventures for North America , Cambon Partners for Europe and MakeMyTrip for South Asia/ASEAN/Pacific and MENA (Middle East/North Africa). Both WiT and Phocuswright are wholly-owned by Northstar Travel Group.

Note: Find out more about the event here, and submit your entry here.