Rove is the Travel Card for The TikTok Generation (YC W24)

Y Combinator startup Rove Aims to Open a New Chapter in Gen Z Travel

Good morning, young Startup Wolves. Today, we are telling you about a new Y Combinator FinTech / Travel startup determined to turn GenZ’s desire to be free and travel the world recording TikTok dances into cold, hard cash.

Despite their age and relatively modest incomes, data from research company Morning Consult reveals that more than half of American Generation Z adults, those born between 1997 and 2013, take three or more leisure trips each year. All before their first real job. (Pfft I don’t actually recommend jobs so I’m all for this).

Yet, only 11% of Gen Zs who travel frequently come from households earning $100,000 or more annually.

The data shows that 61% say they earn less than $50,000 per year. More than just statistics, these numbers paint a portrait of a generation unbound by traditional income norms, (read: I mean you just need ‘spending power’, am I right?) seeking adventure regardless of financial constraints.

Wow, why didn’t I think of that?

Enter Rove. Founded by Arhan Chhabra and Max Morganroth, Rove pioneering a shift in how the TikTok Generation navigates the world.

TikTok is a wash with ideas for affordable travel to lesser-known places often deemed “hidden gems.” Gen Z is uniquely propelled by a sense of adventure, prioritizing mental health, and seeking diverse cultural experiences, elements that set them apart from their predecessors.

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Rove aims to be more than just a credit card. They want to be the Travel Daddy of Gen Z. Card members, users, family get access to spending power buoyed by the normal 17-29% interest rates but also… a free trip a year! Don’t overlook a way to plan for that trip not to exceed their (daddy’s/mommy’s) card limit using A.I..

Founders Vision

Recognizing the complexity of travel planning on a limited budget and the power of Artificial Intelligence (woooo travel robots, we like Robots), founders Arhan Chhabra and Max Morganroth created an A.I. Travel Assistant, perfect for trip planning on a budget.

Chhabra, a Harvard student studying computer science and economics, and

Morganroth, a student of The Wharton School studying Entrepreneurship both had the experience necessary to turn this start-up into a budding success. Their GenZ Travel credit card company is currently backed by Y Combinator (W24), Pear, Soma Capital, Prod, Harvard Innovation Labs, and more.  

Streamlined Adventure Awaits

With no annual fee and a range of point bonuses for everyday purchases, Rove positions itself as the go-to choice for young adults seeking global adventures. No credit history is needed to apply and each user has unlimited virtual cards, tailoring Rove perfectly to Gen Z. Each feature of the Rove card is designed to align with the lifestyle of Gen Z and ensures that it integrates into the diverse financial preferences and habits.

More Than Points: Crafting Experiences with Rove

Rove offers a multifaceted experience that extends beyond point accrual. With 2X points on all purchases, 3X on travel, and 4X for a month for every referral, Rove prioritizes travelers getting the most for their dollar. In recognition of Generation Z's penchant for last-minute and flexible planning, Rove includes worry-free coverage for trip cancellation and delay coverage. This thoughtful inclusion transforms Rove from a mere transactional tool into a reliable companion, seamlessly aligning with the dynamic travel habits of the modern explorer.

Towards the Horizon: Shaping the Future of Travel

As Rove pioneers the landscape of travel, it is not focused on one sole aspect. AI integrates into and enhances travel experiences across a diverse spectrum of destinations.

Rove envisions a world where every journey becomes a personalized exploration, guided by AI intelligence to fulfill the unique desires of each user. By bridging a gap between technology and travel, Rove is at the forefront of revolutionizing the affordable and exploratory travel experience. The horizon holds limitless possibilities, and Rove stands poised to redefine the travel experience for generations to come.

Why we are excited by Rove

✅ They have their finger on the pulse of a generation eager to travel and have new experiences despite pesky financial constraints.

✅ They are building community by offering travel planning assistance tools.

✅ They win friends by giving the promise of a free trip a year

✅ YC likes them