Open World™ Accelerator

The first program is focused on improving travel experiences by increasing inclusion and accessibility in travel. It is tied to the recently unveiled Open World™ social impact and sustainability strategy. Click here to learn more.

If you are a startup or SMB meeting these criteria, we invite you to apply:

• Tech or tech-enabled and must have at least a have a product or service built to the MVP (minimum viable product) stage.
• Incorporated in the last 10 years or less
• Have a mission, objective or focus to increase accessibility and/or inclusivity within the travel industry

We are committed to diversifying the travel ecosystem and highly encourage startups and SMBs with underrepresented founders/leaders to apply.

Yes! Expedia Group is committed to a welcoming, accessible experience for all program participants. If you need accommodations or accessibility to participate in the Open World™ Accelerator, please specify your request in the application form and we will work with you to meet your requests and ensure an equitable experience.

Yes. Startups and SMBs located globally can apply.

No, for now. However, in 2023 Expedia Group will roll out its Co-development Program to engage startups across the travel industry and in various technology sectors and innovate in its Open World technology platform. Click here to learn more about the platform.
Stay tuned!

Phase 1: You only need to submit the application form.

Phase 2: Should you advance to the second round; you will need a pitch deck for the virtual interview session. This will take place on early-mid November 2022.

The Accelerator looks for passionate teams to develop innovative solutions that support or disrupt the travel industry and improve the experience for travelers. The accelerator will run various programs that will focus on various themes across the travel industry landscape.

Process Selection for Impact Program: Companies who apply to this inaugural program will go through two rounds of review. The first is an online application review, and the second is a virtual pitch in front of a panel of judges. Participant selection is determined by our diverse community of Judges who will evaluate the applicants based on the selection criteria and provide a recommendation for participation.

Selection Criteria:

1. Clarity of problem statement and potential addressable market
2. Uniqueness of product/solution
3. Traction and scalability potential
4. Team makeup and experience
5. Mission, objective or focus to increase accessibility and/or inclusivity within the travel industry
6. Quality of presentation (if applicant moves to interview round)

The accelerator is open to all companies who have an MVP regardless of the stage of growth. The company must be tech or tech-enabled and must have at least a have a product or service built to the MVP (minimum viable product) stage. Using data, market insights, and customer behaviour as evidence, show us why your company needs to be built, and why you’re the team that should build it.

The Accelerator program is a six-month, remote program with the exception of two in-person events: (1) Program Opening at Expedia Group’s HQ in January 2023 in the USA, and (2) Program Closure/Demo Day in May 2023 in the USA.

We recommend that at least two (2) people from the core team are engaged in the program content for the duration of the program. At least 1 team member is required to participate in the regular mentor check-ins. Additionally, it is required to attend the 2-day program kick-off and closure in person events in the USA.

Travel expenses for these events will be covered by the program.

The program time commitment is as follows:

• 2-day in person program kick off at Expedia's HQ in Seattle, Washington
• 2-3 curriculum sessions per week remotely, average 2 hours (these include expert talks, workshops, or small group review sessions)
• Monthly mentor sessions: 3 hours average
• 2-day closing event in the USA – in person

• Growth: Access to Expedia Group insights and tech to accelerate startups’ organic growth and product development including access to Expedia Group products such as:
• TAAP -Travel Agent Affiliate Program; designed for small and mid-sized travel agencies to earn commission on each booking that a traveller for Expedia travel products.
• Affiliate Hub; through Widgets, APIS and deep links, travel vendors can optimize how visitors and customers can seamlessly book travel products using their recommendations.
• MeSo, Expedia Media Solutions; a global travel advertising platform connecting marketers with hundreds of millions of travellers across the Expedia Group brands. As a participant you will receive MeSo credits to run and test advertising campaigns.

• Knowledge Development: Regular coaching and mentoring sessions by Expedia Group and external traveltech experts, in addition to workshops to advance both product and business roadmaps.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with a community of like-minded traveltech innovators and participate in two in-person events: (1) Program Opening at Expedia Group’s HQ in January 2023, and (2) Program Closure/Demo Day in May 2023. Travel for both in-person events will be covered by Expedia Group.
• Brand Exposure and Marketing: Expedia Group press, social media, and website amplification will boost your visibility in industry and investment communities.
• Financial Support: Access to up to $20,000 USD non-equity grant per selected participant company.
• Partnership Opportunities: Opportunity to explore potential commercial and/or tech partnerships with Expedia Group.

Participants that actively participate in the program and progress accordingly to the program milestones will receive the cash prize at the end of the program.

Yes, the program is completely equity free.

You will be part of the Accelerator Alumni with benefits including, but not limited to:

• Being a member of the Expedia Group innovation community.
• Possibility of being invited as a speaker, expert, or mentor for future accelerator programs.

You can review the terms and conditions here Open World Accelerator Terms and Conditions and pdf.

Email us at: OpenWorldAccelerator@expediagroup.com