PurposeLiterature concerning the linkages between entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and firm performance (FP) has been growing in tourism research. However, the linkage's relevance to new venture travel intermediaries remains vague. This study proposes a model that helps researchers and practitioners understand how EO translates into new venture FP through two strategic perspectives of value creation, i.e. firm value (FV) and customer perceived value (CPV).Design/methodology/approachThe study tests this framework using structural equation modeling on a matched dyadic sample of 127 new venture firms belonging to the Indian travel industry.FindingsThe results posit that FV and CPV partially mediate the relationship between EO and new venture FP. The study advances the existing knowledge on the link between EO and FP and provides insights into how EO can enhance FV and CPV which ultimately enhances FP.Originality/valueThis work is the first to extend and integrate the idea of FV and CPV to entrepreneurship and new venture performance literature. By considering the two strategic aspects of value creation, i.e. FV and CPV, the paper presents a holistic view of value creation through EO.