Airbnb-backed WeRoad raises $58M to take its group travel platform to the US

WeRoad, a startup based in Milan specializing in group travel, has secured $58 million in a Series C funding round led by Airbnb, marking its initial foray into the U.S. market, starting with Austin. This latest investment elevates WeRoad's total funding to approximately $100 million and is intended to enhance its expansion efforts in the United States.

The investment underscores a growing belief that the travel industry is evolving, with new companies emerging that prioritize social interactions over traditional booking mechanisms.

The timing of WeRoad’s launch in the U.S. is particularly relevant, as concerns over loneliness, especially in younger demographics, have emerged as both a public health issue and a business opportunity. While many technology companies are focusing on artificial intelligence, WeRoad is positioning itself within the burgeoning "IRL economy," which encompasses startups that facilitate real-life interactions rather than mere digital engagement. Other companies in this space include Timeleft, 222, and Pie, all of which foster connections through dinners, clubs, events, and community experiences.

The Origin Story

The founding idea of WeRoad was born out of a personal quest for connection by its founders—Paolo De Nadai, Fabio Bin, and Erika De Santi.

"It originated from a deeply personal necessity. After college and as careers commence, finding travel companions becomes increasingly challenging," De Nadai explained to TechCrunch. "My co-founder Fabio and I experimented with companies that offered similar group travel experiences for solo travelers. Although the trips were enjoyable, there was an element missing. Guides were professionals, and the groups were diverse in age, resulting in a lack of genuine connections. Although people traveled together, the bonding experience was lacking."

Shared Interests, Real Connections

In response, the founders reimagined group travel by focusing on shared interests. WeRoad creates trips primarily aimed at younger travelers, designed around common interests and travel styles. Users can select trips based on themes such as beach getaways or skiing adventures.

"We posed the question: 'What if we designed trips specifically for Millennials and Gen Z travelers, bringing together individuals of the same age group with shared cultural backgrounds but diverse personal experiences, all while fostering authentic connections among them?'" De Nadai noted.

Prior to each trip, participants are added to a WhatsApp group overseen by the group leader, allowing them to interact and get acquainted before the journey begins. Typical groups consist of between eight and fifteen travelers.

"The primary concern travelers express is rarely about the destination," De Nadai noted, adding that it's typically a worry regarding their ability to connect with the group. To mitigate this, WeRoad strategically aligns itineraries to enhance social dynamics. More adventurous or collaborative activities are often scheduled early to facilitate interaction.

Most itineraries span between 10 and 12 days, though WeRoad has also introduced shorter weekend options aimed at appealing to newcomers. According to the company, around 60% of travelers tend to rebook for additional trips.

Group Leaders Over Tour Guides

Uniquely, WeRoad employs "group leaders" in place of conventional tour guides. These coordinators are generally closer in age to the travelers and serve more as companions than formal guides. The organization currently enlists over 4,000 group leaders globally.

"We prioritize individuals with travel experience and strong interpersonal skills over traditional destination experts. Are they capable of managing group dynamics, adapting to unforeseen changes, and fostering connections among strangers?" De Nadai remarked.

Expansion Beyond Travel

WeRoad has also started to branch out beyond travel experiences. In 2025, the company launched WeMeet, an application designed for local in-person gatherings such as dinners, hikes, yoga classes, running clubs, after-work social gatherings, and board game nights. WeRoad reports that over 50,000 individuals participated in WeMeet events across 35 cities last year, and the app achieved 150,000 downloads.

WeRoad indicates that WeMeet will be integral to its U.S. expansion strategy. Instead of pursuing immediate nationwide growth, WeRoad plans to concentrate on a select number of cities initially, beginning with Austin. There, it will recruit group leaders, coordinate local events, and foster community partnerships prior to broader expansion.

"We intend to roll out WeMeet events in various U.S. cities throughout 2026, commencing with Austin due to its vibrant community and dynamic atmosphere," De Nadai stated.

Strong Traction

The sustainability of businesses centered around loneliness and social connection remains an unanswered question. However, investor confidence in this demand is rising.

WeRoad reported generating €130 million in revenue in 2025, reflecting a 30% year-over-year increase, and hosted over 100,000 travelers in its trips last year. Since its inception in 2017, the company claims to have organized travel for more than 300,000 customers across over 1,000 itineraries globally.