WeRoad Raises $58M from Airbnb to Enhance U.S. Group Travel Platform

WeRoad, a startup based in Milan that specializes in group travel, has raised an astonishing $58 million in a Series C funding round spearheaded by Airbnb. This marks their first major move beyond Europe. The accumulated funds, approaching $100 million, will support WeRoad’s entry into the U.S. market, commencing in Austin.

This funding highlights a growing trend where travel companies may evolve into social platforms aimed at cultivating genuine offline connections, shifting away from traditional booking websites.

As WeRoad embarks on its U.S. expansion, it addresses rising concerns about loneliness among younger generations. This issue has become a significant public health challenge and a viable business opportunity. While many tech companies are gravitating towards AI, WeRoad is tapping into the flourishing “IRL economy,” prioritizing face-to-face interactions over digital communication. Other projects like Timeleft, 222, and Pie are also venturing into community-centered and event-oriented experiences.

The concept of WeRoad was created by founders Paolo De Nadai, Fabio Bin, and Erika De Santi, who aimed to forge authentic connections among travelers.

“Our inspiration came from our own experiences. After college, finding travel companions becomes more challenging as friends start families or become preoccupied,” De Nadai shared with TechCrunch. “Fabio and I explored solo travel as an alternative for group experiences. While enjoyable, something felt lacking. Even though the guides were local experts, different age dynamics sometimes hindered genuine connections. Travelers were present, but not fully engaged.”

In response, the founders redefined group travel to emphasize shared interests. WeRoad’s trips cater primarily to younger travelers and are centered around specific themes and experiences, such as beach retreats or ski excursions.

“We thought, ‘What if we designed trips for Millennials and Gen Z, bringing together individuals from similar cultural backgrounds to foster authentic relationships?’” De Nadai expounded.

Before each trip, participants are added to a WhatsApp group led by the trip coordinator, allowing connections to begin forming prior to the journey. Group sizes typically range from eight to fifteen travelers.

“What travelers are most worried about isn’t the location,” De Nadai emphasized, “but whether they’ll connect with their group. To alleviate this concern, WeRoad carefully crafts its itineraries to promote social interactions. More engaging or cooperative activities are usually scheduled earlier to strengthen bonds.”

Most itineraries last between ten and twelve days, although shorter weekend options have also been introduced for newcomers. WeRoad has observed that around 60% of travelers opt for additional trips.

Rather than traditional tour guides, WeRoad employs “group leaders.” These leaders are typically closer in age to the travelers and accompany them throughout their entire experience. Currently, WeRoad partners with over 4,000 group leaders worldwide.

“Our goal isn’t to have specialists for every location, but to find individuals with travel experiences and strong people skills. Can they lead a group, resolve conflicts, adapt to changes, and connect strangers?” De Nadai noted.

WeRoad is also expanding its offerings beyond travel. In 2025, the company launched WeMeet, an app dedicated to local events that includes activities like community dinners, hiking, yoga sessions, running clubs, after-work meetups, and game nights. Last year, WeMeet attracted over 50,000 participants across 35 cities and achieved 150,000 downloads.

WeRoad plans to incorporate WeMeet into its U.S. approach, concentrating on specific cities instead of a nationwide rollout, starting in Austin by recruiting group leaders, organizing local events, and fostering community partnerships before further growth.

“We aim to host WeMeet events in multiple U.S. cities in 2026, beginning with Austin, celebrated for its vibrant culture and active community,” De Nadai stated.

While the viability of building lasting businesses that tackle loneliness and enhance social interactions remains uncertain, investor confidence in potential demand is on the rise.

WeRoad reported €130 million in revenue for 2025, demonstrating a 30% year-on-year increase and serving over 100,000 travelers last year. Since its inception in 2017, the company has facilitated travel for more than 300,000 customers through over 1,000 itineraries worldwide.