Virtuoso has announced it is seeking promising travel technology startups and emerging companies to join its 2018 Incubator. Founded in 2015, Virtuoso Incubator guides young travel tech companies in refining tools to boost advisor productivity and client service. The Virtuoso Incubator helps the network’s travel agencies span the gap between traditional consultants and today’s technology-savvy advisors, enabling them to stay ahead of the competitive curve.
The Virtuoso Incubator provides travel technology developers with real-world feedback from its force of luxury travel advisors, helping participants improve their products to enhance functionality and better meet market demand. As part of this year’s Incubator, more than 100 advisors in eight countries tested solutions, providing input on how to strengthen the tools. As a testament to the program’s worth, all of 2016’s advisor participants wanted to test Incubator products again this year, Virtuoso said. Once the trial phase finishes, Incubator companies are considered for full Virtuoso partnership.
“Since the program’s inception, Virtuoso Incubator companies have introduced technology solutions to thousands of Virtuoso advisors from all global regions that have made a significant difference in their efficiency and service levels,” said David Kolner, senior vice president, Global Member Partnerships at Virtuoso, in a written release. “Internally, our member agencies benefit greatly because they have a trusted solution to vet and select tools that fit their individual needs. Virtuoso Incubator introduces them to products they otherwise might not know are available. Externally, we are providing a huge stepping stone for travel technology companies, as well as generating interest from entrepreneurs wishing to invest in the industry.”
The leading participants from this year’s Incubator are:
- Approach Guides: Its Trip Reads content service — with a collection of inspirational and thought-provoking videos, articles, books and podcasts — highlights signature cultural aspects of global destinations.
- TravelContact: A CRM technology that includes a client and provider database, email and newsletter marketing platform; multichannel communication; beginning-to-end trip builder; client portal; and a smart dashboard which displays daily tasks.
- tripFiles: A free private social network for travelers, who can store their videos and photos and safely share their trips and images, eliminating the need to send photos to travel companions.
- Xplr VR: The app-based virtual reality platform by Canadian publisher Travelweek is designed for the travel industry. It guides users on an immersive journey through a destination, dramatically increasing sales conversion rates and enhancing staff’s knowledge.
Virtuoso Incubator is accepting applications for the 2018 program from companies focused on boosting agency productivity and client service. Those who would like to join the program may submit an expression of interest form here. The deadline for applications is December 15, 2017, and decisions will be made by February 2018.
Visit www.virtuoso.com/incubator
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