After five years of collaboration, innovation, and bold vision, AerialMetric is entering a new chapter. The host organization of Madagascar Flying Labs is now transitioning from being a member of the Flying Labs Network to becoming a technology partner for the entire global Flying Labs community. This shift is part of WeRobotics’ partner ecosystem, which connects local experts with the tools, technologies, and opportunities they need to multiply impact.

This transition marks a natural evolution for a team that has consistently demonstrated technical excellence and entrepreneurial spirit since joining the Network in 2020.

Building Local Innovation from the Ground Up

When Madagascar Flying Labs first joined the Network, their commitment was clear: design, assemble, test, and repair drones locally in Madagascar. In doing so, they wanted to ensure that drone technology could be adapted to the specific needs of communities and institutions across the country.

The team quickly proved that commitment in practice. Starting with drone survey and mapping services, they later expanded into drone deliveries. This innovation wasn’t just technical—it was transformative. By pioneering drone delivery of essential medicines, they improved healthcare access for rural communities, helping save lives in areas where transport had always been difficult.

A Bold Investment in Local Capacity

In 2022, AerialMetric took a major step to deepen their local presence. The organization launched a state-of-the-art production facility in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital. In just nine months, the facility grew to house over 35 skilled staff.

The facility was designed with safety and production excellence in mind, aligning with international standards while remaining rooted in local expertise. This investment demonstrated the team’s belief that long-term impact requires local production, local talent, and local ownership.

By scaling up in this way, AerialMetric not only enhanced its own capabilities but also set a model for how local drone companies can evolve from service providers into technology leaders.

Aligning with WeRobotics’ Mission

At WeRobotics, the mission is to amplify the power of local expertise to create sustainable solutions for development, aid, and climate resilience. This is achieved through the Flying Labs Network—a global network of independent organizations led by local experts in drones, data, and AI.

Importantly, WeRobotics does not build technology itself. Instead, it fosters access through a growing partner ecosystem. This includes discounts on hardware, donations of software, and strategic opportunities for collaboration. In this ecosystem, AerialMetric now joins as a technology partner, further strengthening the bridge between local expertise and global impact.

A Flexible and Responsive Network

One of the unique aspects of the Flying Labs Network is its flexibility. Unlike top-down, centralized models, the Network is designed to adapt to the goals and capacities of its members.

For AerialMetric, that flexibility has meant growing from a licensed Flying Labs to a technology partner. This shift is a cause for celebration, as it reflects both their growth and the supportive structure of the Network.

Rather than imposing rigid pathways, WeRobotics supports Flying Labs to build organizational strength and expand their impact. When it becomes time for a new type of collaboration, the transition is co-created. The case of AerialMetric shows how local leadership can evolve into global partnership.

What Comes Next

With AerialMetric’s transition, the license for Madagascar Flying Labs is now open for application. New organizations, institutions, or companies in Madagascar working with drones, data, or AI will have the opportunity to continue the legacy of local innovation and collaboration.

At the same time, AerialMetric will continue to thrive as a global partner, bringing their technical expertise, production capacity, and vision to support the wider Flying Labs Network.

A Model for Growth

The story of AerialMetric’s transition is more than a milestone for one organization. It is a model for how local experts can grow when given space, trust, and resources.

By moving from a Flying Labs license holder to a technology partner, AerialMetric embodies the mission of WeRobotics and the Flying Labs Network: to ensure that technology is not only accessible locally but also shaped and led by local talent.

This moment is proof of what becomes possible when bold ideas, local leadership, and global collaboration come together. AerialMetric’s journey is far from over—on the contrary, it has only just entered an exciting new phase.

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