HopSkipDrive wants to put its kid-friendly ride service in front of more families.
The startup announced $10.2 million U.S. in new funding on Tuesday, along with the hire of a former Uber GM.
HopSkipDrive, founded in 2014 by three working moms, is one of several startups that is laser-focused on transporting the most precious cargo of all: kids.
Parents can schedule rides for their kids, ages seven to 17, up to two weeks in advance -- or with just eight hours notice.
Whereas competitor Shuddle is servicing San Francisco, HopSkipDrive is tackling Southern California first. It has 500 drivers as part of its network, all have undergone a 15-point certification process, including fingerprinting, vehicle inspections, monthly DMV checks, reference and social security checks.
The drivers are all contract workers -- and 99% are women. Many work as nannies or are stay-at-home moms in addition to driving. They're don't just drop off and pick up kids, they also escort them into school or an event.
According to co-founder Joanna McFarland, many use the service as an "alternative to a babysitter." The service charges $20 U.S. per ride, but parents can save money by purchasing rides in packs.
HopSkipDrive doesn't even require that kids have a cellphone: Kids can say a passcode ("Pokémon",. e.g.) to the driver to ensure they're hopping into the right vehicle.
HopSkipDrive, which raised $3.9 million U.S. in July, declined to share specifics on its expansion plans but said it would be in more markets this year.
