ABCey’s Startup Monday: Zipline!

Startup Monday is ABCey’s weekly post that showcases some of the best and most innovative startups based in the San Francisco Bay Area! These are often companies that we have our eye on or have worked with in the past. This week, the spotlight’s on Zipline – the startup devoted to delivering life-saving medical supplies, even to the most remote locations! 

What is Zipline?

Zipline is the only startup to take to the skies to deliver urgently-needed medicines, like blood and vaccines. They are able to work at a national level to provide these services to anyone with the help of drones! Since its launch in 2016, the team has delivered thousands of units of blood to those in need in Rwanda.

How does it work?

Their process is simplified into 5 steps. First, health workers at clinics and hospitals send a text message requesting the medical supplies they need. Then, the Zipline team quickly responds and packages the items at the Zipline Distribution Center. In addition to immediate access, having valued medicines located in the center maintains product integrity! Afterward, health workers receive a confirmation text when their order is launched. Traveling at over 100 km/h, the medical supplies are delivered in 30 minutes or less. When the order has safely descended via parachute in the designated recovery area, health workers are notified. Lastly, the drone returns to the Distribution Center to be quickly restocked and sent off again!

Why do we love Zipline?

We love Zipline for its innovation and its service! They were able to develop a revolutionary idea by utilizing one of the hottest tech trends of 2016 – drones. Their work ensures that those who live in remote locations are able to provide immediate medical care without worrying about access to medicines. Also, their drone delivery service cuts down the wait time by over an hour! We really admire that Zipline has given opportunities to thousands of individuals.

Have you heard of them? Do you like Zipline, too? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook and Twitter!

If you’d like to see other San Francisco startups we’ve featured before, click here.