Localizing robotics and AI solutions for social good through the global Flying Labs network
WeRobotics is a pioneering social enterprise founded in 2015 that revolutionizes the application of robotics and artificial intelligence for social good through its innovative Flying Labs network. Co-founded by Dr. Patrick Meier, Andrew Schroeder, Sonja Betschart, and Adam Klaptocz, the organization emerged from the collaboration of two existing initiatives: Drone Adventures and UAViators. WeRobotics operates on a fundamental principle of localizing technology and transferring expertise to communities that need it most, ensuring that cutting-edge drone and AI solutions are deployed by local experts who understand the unique challenges and contexts of their regions.
The cornerstone of WeRobotics’ approach is the Flying Labs network, a global ecosystem of locally-led innovation hubs spanning across humanitarian aid, development, and environmental conservation sectors. These Flying Labs empower local teams to harness drones and AI for critical applications including disaster response and mapping, medical supply delivery, agricultural monitoring and crop health analysis, and environmental protection initiatives. By establishing dedicated program tracks that run across all Flying Labs, WeRobotics facilitates knowledge sharing and best practices across regions, enabling each lab to amplify its sector-specific impact while contributing to a collective learning ecosystem.
Operating with a diverse remote team spanning 19 countries and bringing together expertise across drone technology, GIS, disaster management, nature conservation, educational policy, and more, WeRobotics has established itself as a leader in democratizing access to advanced robotics technology. The organization’s commitment to co-creative collaboration, open sharing, and systems change has enabled it to drive meaningful impact across East Africa and beyond. Through strategic focus on network stewardship, enhanced governance via the Flying Labs Network Council, and streamlined operations, WeRobotics continues to scale its mission of shifting power to local experts and building a truly global robotics community dedicated to humanitarian aid, development, and environmental protection.
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Sonja Betschart
Co-Founder of WeRobotics and Drone Adventures. Pioneer in localizing drone technology for humanitarian and development applications globally.
Dr. Patrick Meier
Co-Founder of WeRobotics and UAViators. Leading expert in humanitarian technology and the application of AI and robotics for crisis response and development.
Andrew Schroeder
Co-Founder of WeRobotics and UAViators. Expert in data science and humanitarian technology with extensive experience in crisis response and development programs.