Technology has completely transformed how we experience travel — from how we search and book trips to how we navigate airports, manage itineraries, and even where we stay. Rapid innovation has come with complex policy questions, as lawmakers and industry leaders work to keep up with the pace of change. Now more than ever, it’s time to take a closer look at the startups and forward-thinking companies shaping the future of travel. 

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That’s precisely why the Glen Echo team was thrilled to support the Travel Technology Association (Travel Tech) as they hosted their inaugural Start-Up Summit and second annual Policy & Innovation Showcase on Capitol Hill earlier this month, bringing together the biggest names (and boldest innovators) in the travel technology space.

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If you couldn’t make the trip, check out our recap below!

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Start-Up Summit

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The inaugural Start-Up Summit brought together travel tech startups with travel tech industry leaders, giving them opportunities to network and learn from one another. The event featured four panel discussions, where attendees heard from travel tech investors and advisors about securing capital to grow their businesses, as well as from the Small Business Administration’s Office of Investment and Innovation and congressional staff. 

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As part of the event, ten travel technology startups also gave five-minute lightning pitches to showcase their business and innovative products, explaining how they are helping to move the travel industry forward and what they need to continue scaling and growing their business. 

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‍Policy & Innovation Showcase

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The Policy & Innovation Showcase kicked off with two panel discussions and featured exhibits from Travel Tech member companies and startups, providing attendees (predominantly congressional staff) with the opportunity to learn about Travel Tech’s work to make the travel experience more transparent, competitive and innovative for consumers. 

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The wide-ranging discussion touched on everything from sports tourism and the role of travel technology platforms in enhancing fans’ travel experiences to how public policy can address the unique needs of startups. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) were honored with the Innovation Leadership Award for their roles in championing innovation in the travel industry.

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The first panel, “From Stadium to Stay: Building a Better Travel Experience for Mega Sports Events,” included experts from the sports tourism industry and travel platforms. Panelists shared best practices and insights from the Paris Olympics and discussed how the U.S. can maximize the benefits of hosting these landmark events ― enhancing visitor experiences while safeguarding consumers from fraud. 

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The second panel focused on the unique challenges and opportunities facing travel tech startups. A mix of entrepreneurs, investors, and policy experts dug into how public policy can better support innovation — covering everything from access to capital and fair competition to tax issues, privacy, and the growing role of AI. 

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One key theme across the day’s events was the dual role of public policy: it can either unlock innovation or create barriers. Panelists stressed the importance of policies that expand access to capital, reduce compliance costs, and foster fair competition ― especially for early-stage startups. Specific policy recommendations include supporting legislation like the Small Business Investment Act to make investing in travel tech startups more attractive.

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Technology in the travel space — AI-driven bookings, contactless check-ins, dynamic pricing, short-term rental platforms — evolves quickly. Policymakers need to stay informed so they can craft regulations that are fair, effective, and forward-looking. Ultimately, we all want travel to be safer, smoother, and more accessible. Working together helps ensure that innovation in travel benefits everyone — not just the biggest players or the savviest travelers.

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If you’re operating in a similarly fast-moving industry, the Glen Echo team can help you advocate for policies that provide regulatory clarity for emerging technologies, foster connections within the innovation ecosystem, and position yourself as a partner for public-private collaboration. Let's work together. 

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