Utrecht-based Runnr.ai, an AI platform for automated guest communication in the hospitality industry, has raised an additional funding round led by Arches Capital, bringing its total funding to $2M (approximately €1.91M).
Arches Capital is a ‘leading’ investor in European startups, specialising in early-stage growth. It supports founders with funding, strategic advice, and an investor network.
Before this round, in January 2024, the company secured €1M in funding.
AI guest communication automated for hotels
Runnr.ai helps accommodations like hotels and holiday parks streamline guest communication through AI-driven automation.
Its features include proactive messaging via WhatsApp and SMS, AI-powered conversations, a unified inbox, digital key access, automatic upselling, and a 24/7 virtual concierge.
The platform can also be integrated with Booking.com’s inbox, centralising guest interactions across multiple platforms. Runnr.ai reduces operational complexity, enhances efficiency, and improves the guest experience.
Michiel de Vor, co-founder and CEO of Runnr.ai, says, “AI software for the hospitality industry is projected to be a $70B+ market in 2031. Hotels and holiday parks struggle to manage guest interactions while maximising revenue opportunities.”
“Runnr.ai eliminates these inefficiencies by automating messaging, upsells, and service requests with deep hospitality software integrations, ensuring a seamless guest experience with minimal operational effort.”
“With the backing of Arches Capital and our angel investors, we’re excited to scale our impact and bring intelligent automation to even more accommodations worldwide.”
Since raising its last funding in January 2024, Runnr.ai has expanded, attracting major customers like Center Parcs, AG Hotels, and Hotel Casa Amsterdam. Now active in over 10 countries, its weekly reach has grown from 4,000 to 16,000 hotel guests.
The platform continues to enhance guest communication through AI-driven automation, integrating deeper with hospitality software to streamline tasks like upselling, housekeeping, and online check-ins.
Capital utilisation
Runnr.ai will use the funds to enhance guest experiences, streamline operations, and boost revenue through AI automation. The investment will also support product innovation, market expansion, and strategic hiring to strengthen its leadership in AI-driven hospitality solutions.
Growth will initially be stimulated in the Netherlands, Belgium and the United Kingdom, followed by the rest of Europe.
Frank Appeldoorn, Managing Partner at Arches Capital, says, “Runnr.ai is setting a new standard in AI-powered hospitality automation. Their ability to drive guest engagement and revenue, while streamlining operations, makes them a must-have solution for any type of accommodation. We believe in their long-term potential and are excited to back this next phase of expansion.”
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