Growing Stronger Together: The Evolution of the Flying Labs Network

Since its beginnings in 2016 with just three Flying Labs, the Flying Labs Network has grown organically into a vibrant community of over 40 Flying Labs across Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia/Pacific. This steady growth reflects the incredible commitment of local technology experts in the Global South to create change in their own communities. 

As the Network has grown in size, it has also become a dynamic space where members share knowledge, learn together, and co-create replicable and adaptable solutions to challenges in disaster risk reduction, agriculture, climate action, development, education, and beyond. Each Flying Labs brings a unique perspective and deep local expertise, enriching the collective impact of the Network.

Evolving with Purpose

The Network’s growth in size is fully organic, meaning that new Flying Labs join on their own demand, and that existing Flying Labs who do not see value in being part of the Network or struggle to make their Flying Labs sustainable can decide not to renew the annual license that they hold to be part of the Network. 

While organic growth has brought us this far, we are intentionally shifting focus to deepen connections within the Network, a focus that has been requested by the Network members. Evolving the Network therefore means putting a stronger focus on not only growing in size but growing in strength as well—cultivating collective power and driving forward our shared vision and the Network’s core values of sharing and collaboration more effectively than ever before.

Our governance model, called the Flying Labs Network Global model, co-created between WeRobotics and Flying Labs in 2020, translates what “growth in strength” means through 50+ criteria. This model is complemented with a number of policies that support the governance of the Network. In addition, clear criteria that are periodically reviewed with Flying Labs, drive the annual license renewal process. The Flying Labs and Network Guidelines are periodically updated to reflect these criteria.

As core tenets of the Network, sharing and collaboration play a vital role in the annual renewals. Thus, the evolution towards a stronger focus on “growth in strength” also translates into bidding farewell to Flying Labs that are unable to meet these criteria over time, criteria that demonstrate these values through in-country activities and active participation in the Network. The decision to offboard a Flying Labs is never taken lightly. This is why our annual renewal process is deeply rooted in both criteria, and open discussions between WeRobotics and Flying Labs.

Over the past 18 months, WeRobotics, in its role as the Network’s steward, has collaborated with Flying Labs members and the recently established Flying Labs Network Council to more thoroughly implement these criteria. While this process has led to the difficult decision to part ways with some Flying Labs, it also represents a healthy evolution for the Network. Such transitions require not only time for reflection and learning but also the courage to take decisive action. It is now time to act courageously and honor the responsibility that Flying Labs have entrusted WeRobotics with: ensuring the Network’s growth in quality and strength.

Certainly, there are many reasons a Flying Labs may be unable to meet the criteria for collaboration and sharing. However, through the decision to offboard Flying Labs, we reaffirm the long-term sustainability of the Network as our priority. This allows us to dedicate support to those capable of undertaking what it means to be a part of the Network. 

As a small number of Flying Labs will leave the Network over the coming months, and others undoubtedly join, this evolution is a natural and positive step any Network needs to address. It reflects the adaptability and resilience of our community, which remains committed to a collective work of catalyzing the positive impact of drones, data, and AI for social good applications in our various countries.

Strengthening Connections

To thrive in this next chapter, it is essential that Flying Labs:

• Keep on building deep and wide collaborations, working together within and across regions to tackle a wide variety of challenges.
• Engage in meaningful conversations, sharing insights that drive innovation and amplify localized solutions.
• Co-create in surprising ways, leveraging diverse experiences and expertise to design impactful projects.
• Align constantly with our shared vision, ensuring we remain united in purpose and action.

This approach will both strengthen the Network and ensure that Flying Labs remain responsive to the needs of their local communities.

Together, We Go Far

Our mantra, alone we go fast, together we go far, continues to guide us as we begin this new year. The Flying Labs Network is growing into an even more supportive and collaborative space, ready to tackle the world’s pressing challenges with creativity and determination.

We celebrate the successes of 2024 and eagerly anticipate the opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we will continue to demonstrate the power of unity, innovation, and local expertise in creating a better future.

Here’s to a stronger, more connected Flying Labs Network in 2025—and beyond!