Logista Response

The specific problem that Logista is solving is the inefficiency and inaccuracy of logistics software solutions in disaster response. This problem is prevalent both locally and globally, impacting communities affected by disasters of various scales.

On a global scale, the impact of disasters is significant. According to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), between 2000 and 2019, there were 7,348 major recorded disaster events, resulting in the loss of 1.23 million lives and affecting 4.2 billion people worldwide. These disasters include natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, and wildfires, as well as public health emergencies like the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Within the communities we are working in, the scale of the problem varies depending on the frequency and severity of disasters. However, it is important to note that historically marginalized communities are often disproportionately affected by disasters, including LGBTQ+, women, migrants and refugees. These communities may face additional challenges such as limited access to resources, inadequate infrastructure, and social vulnerabilities.

Factors contributing to the problem that relate to our solution include the lack of field-oriented and user-friendly logistics software. Existing solutions are often complex and difficult to learn or use in real emergency situations. This leads to responders resorting to homebrew systems that are inaccurate, easily broken, and fail to capture actionable data. As a result, supply shortages occur, posing risks to the health and well-being of disaster responders, healthcare professionals, and affected individuals.

By providing a user-friendly platform specifically designed for disaster responders by fellow disaster responders, Logista aims to address these challenges and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of resource & personnel management during disasters. Our solution focuses on empowering responders with real-time tracking, data-driven insights, and targeted resource allocation strategies, ultimately contributing to more effective disaster response efforts and better outcomes for affected communities.

Logista is significantly ahead of any other disaster LMS with our ability to deploy a response in a matter of minutes or our ability to predict future response needs based on past usage – but that is just the beginning. Logista is positioned to have the largest validated data set of materials deployed in support of disasters, which will drive our future AI tools. This includes the ability to forecast the needs of any kind of disaster to assist in the prepositioning of inventory for routing and deployment.

We’ve personally learned that disaster team members will revert back to pencil and paper if the disaster LMS isn’t incredibly simple to use. So we made Logista as simple as possible to capture the critical information that goes unfulfilled in other systems:

1. A disaster worker or volunteer uses his or her phone to scan items or input them manually via a simple webform. Logista then pulls the item’s manufacturer, product name, lot #, and expiration date from the GUDID database via an API. The item is linked to a category in Logista’s disaster resource typing list.

2. All activities submitted by users are date and time stamped in an Activity Log, which is searchable and used to populate different modules like your Operations Dashboard. 

3. Logista automatically queries the log to provide outputs for your team. Higher level users (like system administrators, logistics chiefs, warehouse leads, etc.) are provided insights and dashboards to help them quickly make decisions.

Demo video: https://youtu.be/IwB0kDvfB7Q

Senior decision-makers in Operations, Logistics, Planning & Finance sections of the disaster response team can now rely on a trove of organized data to inform strategic decisions:

Asset Tracking Logista provides real-time tracking of assets and resources, allowing users to track the location and status of all assets in their warehouse, field and with partner agencies.

Consumable Tracking Logista uniquely tracks consumable items such as food, water, and medical supplies, providing real-time data on inventory levels and burn rates.

Real-time Burn Rates Logista provides hourly, daily and weekly burn rates for every single item in the inventory, allowing users to make informed decisions based on data and adjust par levels accordingly.

Multi-site Integration Logista is designed to integrate with multiple sites, allowing users to track assets and resources across multiple locations, including warehouses, field sites, caches, or strike teams.

Data Visualization and Report Generation Logista provides data visualizations and insights to help predict future logistics needs, as well as custom reports to meet specific user needs.

Predictive Modeling Logista uses predictive modeling to project how many days each item in the inventory will last to stay ahead of the resupply needs of a disaster.

Easy to Use Logista is designed to be user-friendly and easy to use, with a simple interface that requires minimal training. Logista deployed multiple prototypes in the field to ensure those with Just-in-Time training, such as volunteers, could add and remove items easily and accurately.

Rapid Setup/Deployment Logista can be deployed quickly in response to disasters and emergencies, with a setup time of less than 10 minutes when new sites are added.

Custom Alerts Logista provides custom alerts to notify users of critical events, such as low inventory levels or unsustainable burn rates.

QR/Barcode Scanning Logista supports QR and barcode scanning, allowing users to quickly and easily add and track items in their warehouse.

Reimbursement Ready Logista streamlines reimbursement activities through rigorous documentation specifically designed to meet reimbursement requirements.

Logista aims to directly and meaningfully improve the lives of historically marginalized populations in under-resourced regions. Disasters discriminate who they affect, and according to WHO, CDC, UNDRR and other global organizations, women/children/elderly, persons with disabilities, poor or low-income individuals, indigenous communities, refugees and displaced persons, migrant workers, and the LGBTQ+ community are disproportionately affected by disasters.

These populations often lack access to inclusive and equitable resources, infrastructure, tools, information, and markets that could enable them to be better prepared for disasters. They are underserved in terms of disaster response and recovery efforts, as they face challenges in accessing critical resources and support during times of crisis. For example, not having the proper equipment at the right location in a timely manner hinders the mobility for individuals with disabilities during evacuations. Additionally, once this population arrives at a shelter after evacuation, they encounter barriers to physical accessibility, communication, and inclusion within the shelter. Similar barriers exist for all the aforementioned populations and, unfortunately, the co-founders of Logista have witnessed this personally time-and-time again during their disaster response careers.

Logista addresses their needs by providing a user-friendly platform that streamlines and enhances disaster response operations. By enabling easy data entry and retrieval, real-time asset tracking, and data visualizations, Logista empowers response organizations to efficiently allocate resources and respond effectively to the needs of vulnerable populations when resources are extremely scarce and limited. By improving the efficiency and effectiveness of response efforts, Logista aims to bridge the gap in serving the needs of underserved populations during disasters.

Our team at Logista is well-positioned to deliver this solution because we have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the target population and a strong commitment to serving their needs. Our leadership team has over three decades working in public health and emergency management at the local, state and federal levels. We've actively engaged with and listened to the communities we aim to serve during disasters throughout our careers in order to create policies, adjust responses and involve underserved populations through the "disaster lifecycle".

Logista has worked closely with community organizations, stakeholders, and response agencies to gain insights into the unique challenges faced by underserved populations during disasters. This close collaboration has allowed us to incorporate their input, ideas, and agendas into the design and implementation of Logista. We have conducted hundreds of interviews, engaged in dialogue, and sought feedback from the communities to ensure that our solution is tailored to their specific needs and requirements before, during and after disasters.

By actively involving the communities in the development process, we have been able to create a solution that is representative of their experiences and addresses their most pressing concerns. We believe that this approach ensures that our solution is not only technologically sound but also culturally sensitive and responsive to the realities of the target population.

A lofi MVP was used as the logistics system for California’s Emergency Medical Services Authority’s COVID-19 response. Logista managed $1B of inventory and directly helped the State improve the following after using Logista:

• 98%: Data accuracy improved to 98% form 28%
• 88%: Increased fulfillment rates from 33% to 88%,
• 87%: Transportation costs decreased by 87%.
• 70%: Labor hours reduced by 70% within warehouse and field sites.

Logista has identified a development partner and the development of the scalable version of Logista is to launch for June 2024.

Logista has switched from prototyping to obtaining clients beginning February 2024. Logista currently has two clients with an additional 9 agencies sharing intention to join Logista by product delivery in June 2024.

We have raised $136,000 through competitions and grants from UNDRR, Columbia University and the WES Mariam Assefa Fund.

Our immediate goal is to acquire strategic partnerships, mentorships and other valuable relationships that help Logista create stronger future versions while increasing its support to vulnerable populations.

We are applying to Solve because we believe in the power of collaboration and the potential for our solution, Logista, to make a meaningful impact on disaster response and recovery efforts. Solve provides a unique platform that connects us with a diverse network of partners, experts, and resources that can help us overcome the barriers we face.

We previously participated in an accelerator and it was an invaluable experience for our co-founders. Solve was specifically recommended to us from a mentor from the aforementioned entrepreneurship network as being a good alignment of missions.

Specifically, we hope Solve's network and structured resources can provide us with technical expertise and guidance to further refine and enhance Logista, ensuring its effectiveness and usability. By leveraging Solve's network and peer program participants, we hope to take away lessons in leadership, insights on how to approach new markets, scaling advice, technological/development feedback, and public relations counseling that ultimately supports expanding the reach and impact of Logista.

While funding is an important aspect, our goal in applying to Solve is not solely to raise funds. We are seeking the opportunity to collaborate, learn, and grow with like-minded individuals, fellow co-founders, and organizations who are passionate about addressing global challenges. We believe that Solve's support can help us strengthen the development and accelerate the deployment of Logista, ultimately benefiting the underserved communities we aim to serve.

Logista is truly unique among its logistic system peers because it was built by emergency managers for emergency managers. This means the end user’s most critical needs have been prioritized; it can deploy rapidly, track accurately, and it’s easy to use. Additionally, Logista provides critical insights to strengthen response operations. Unlike other logistic tracking systems which start from a strictly tech framework, Logista is built to pull lessons learned and best practices from logistic emergency managers from across the country. This has resulted in a system that allows for precise burn rates of consumables to be calculated, assets to be effectively tracked, and resources to be allocated in real-time. 

One key aspect of Logista's innovation is its user-friendly interface and mobile integration. This allows for easy data entry and retrieval, enabling rapid deployment and efficient monitoring of resources. By simplifying inventory management through QR/barcode scanning, Logista eliminates the need for manual tracking, reducing errors and saving valuable time during critical response efforts.

Another innovative feature of Logista is its data visualization capabilities. By providing real-time asset and consumable tracking, Logista offers predictive insights that can help response agencies and organizations make informed decisions. This empowers them to allocate resources effectively, optimize response strategies, and improve overall disaster management.

Logista's scalability and disaster recovery strategies also contribute to its innovation. The platform is designed to ensure uninterrupted service during emergencies, complying with data privacy regulations and providing secure data management. This reliability and adaptability make Logista a valuable tool in disaster-prone regions, where quick and efficient response is crucial.

1. Efficiency and Optimization: Logista's advanced logistics solutions can drive efficiency and optimization across the supply chain. By streamlining processes, reducing lead times, and minimizing transportation costs, Logista enables businesses to operate more competitively and profitably.

2. Enhanced Collaboration: Logista fosters collaboration among stakeholders in the logistics ecosystem. Through integrated platforms and real-time data sharing, it facilitates seamless communication and coordination between suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. This collaboration leads to improved visibility, faster decision-making, and better resource allocation.

3. Innovation and Technology Adoption: Logista's emphasis on innovation and technology adoption sets new standards in the logistics industry. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI, IoT, and predictive analytics, Logista enables businesses to anticipate demand, optimize inventory levels, and enhance customer satisfaction. This emphasis on innovation drives industry-wide advancements and encourages others to embrace transformative technologies.

4. Sustainability and Environmental Impact: Logista prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsibility in its operations. By promoting eco-friendly practices such as route optimization, carbon footprint reduction, and alternative energy sources, Logista helps mitigate environmental impact and supports the transition to a more sustainable future. This commitment to sustainability sets a positive example for others in the logistics space and encourages industry-wide adoption of green initiatives.

Logista expects to have a significant impact on the problem of disaster response and recovery by improving the efficiency, effectiveness, and coordination of efforts.

The theory of change behind Logista is based on the following logical framework:

1. Activities: Logista will conduct interviews and engage with response organizations and stakeholders to understand their needs and requirements in supporting marginalized communities during disasters. It will also collaborate with a team of developers to finalize the software build and incorporate features that enhance its effectiveness.

2. Outputs: The outputs of Logista include a user-friendly mobile application and a web-based platform that streamline inventory management, asset tracking, and resource allocation. These outputs will be tested and refined through user feedback and continuous improvement.

3. Immediate Outcomes: By providing a digital solution for disaster response, Logista will enable response organizations to efficiently track and manage resources, leading to improved coordination and faster response times. This will result in immediate outcomes such as enhanced situational awareness, optimized resource allocation, and improved communication among stakeholders.

4. Longer-term Outcomes: The longer-term outcomes of Logista include improved disaster response and recovery outcomes for underserved populations in under-resourced regions. By enabling response organizations to make data-driven decisions, Logista will contribute to more effective and targeted resource distribution, ensuring that udnerserved populations receive the support they need in a timely manner. This will lead to reduced loss of life, improved health outcomes, and increased resilience in the face of disasters.

The theory of change behind Logista is supported by evidence from research on the benefits of digital solutions in disaster management, as well as feedback from interviews with response organizations and stakeholders. By leveraging user-friendly technology and data specifically tailored to the needs of disaster responders, Logista has the potential to transform the way disaster response is conducted, ultimately making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by disasters.

Logista has some lofty, but very real and tangible, impact goals. These goals include:

• Reduce mortality rates for target populations 
• Increase cost savings for response organizations
• Increase disaster resiliency for underserved populations
• Reduce the amount of violence women & girls face during times of disasters

Indicator #1
Tracking real-time logistics usage (burn rates) at the point of distribution of a disaster response will improve the response agency’s shipping KPIs.
KPI 1: % reduction in trips to fulfill resupply requests (Baseline: 9 trucks/week)
KPI 2: % reduction in shipping costs related to resupply requests
KPI 3: Number of man hours spent delivering supplies.

Indicator #2
Leveraging real-time tracking, user-friendly UX, and automating critical input fields, Logista will increase efficiency and operational readiness for disaster response at a command/warehouse level.

KPI 1. % increase in inventory accuracy (Baseline: 28%)
KPI 2. % increase in fulfillment rates (Baseline: 33%)
KPI 3. Total value of supplies that would have expired without intervention

Indicator #3
Leveraging real-time tracking, user-friendly UX, and automating critical input fields, Logista will increase efficiency and operational readiness for disaster response at a field/local level.
KPI 1: % reduction of man hours spent counting inventory
KPI 2: % reduction of man hours spent reconciling inventory discrepancies
KPI 3: Decrease in overall logistics operational expenditures (measured by quarterly spending) for a Response Resource Unit

The core technology that powers Logista is a comprehensive software platform that streamline and enhance disaster response and recovery efforts. Logista utilizes a combination of mobile application, web-based interfaces, AI, and cloud-based infrastructure to provide a robust and user-friendly solution.

The mobile application component of Logista enables users to easily input and access data in real-time, even in remote or disaster-affected areas. It utilizes modern technologies such as GPS, QR/barcode scanning, and offline data synchronization to ensure seamless data collection and resource tracking. This allows response organizations to efficiently manage and monitor inventory, assets, and personnel during disaster operations.

The web-based interface of Logista serves as a centralized hub for data management, analysis, and visualization. It leverages cloud-based infrastructure to securely store and process large volumes of data, enabling real-time insights and decision-making. The interface provides interactive dashboards, mapping tools, and reporting capabilities, empowering response organizations to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation and make informed decisions.

In addition to these core technologies, Logista also incorporates other modern technologies as needed. For example, it can integrate with existing systems and databases through APIs, enabling seamless data exchange and interoperability. It also leverages AI and data analytics to provide predictive insights and optimize resource allocation.

Overall, Logista's core technology is a combination of mobile applications, web-based interfaces, cloud infrastructure, and integration capabilities. By harnessing the power of modern technology, Logista aims to revolutionize disaster response and recovery, improving outcomes for underserved populations in emerging markets and contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future.

Full Time

• Drew Downing, Co-Founder
• Ethan Downing, Co-Founder
• Steve Medley, CFO

Part Time

• Nancy Chow, Project Manager

Development Vendor

• Crowdbotics, LLC

We have been formally working on Logista for 3 years, with over 2.5 years of research and development plus prototyping. 

Our Co-Founders and CFO have over 30 years of public health and emergency management institutional knowledge.

Logista is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable team environment. We recognize the importance of diversity in driving innovation, creativity, and better decision-making. Our team is composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including different races & ethnicities, genders, abilities, geographic locations, and perspectives.

To ensure diversity and minimize barriers to opportunity, we have implemented several strategies:

1. Recruitment and Hiring: We actively seek out candidates from underrepresented communities and marginalized groups. We use inclusive language in job postings and engage with diverse networks and organizations to attract a wide range of applicants. Our hiring process focuses on evaluating skills, experiences, and potential rather than traditional markers of privilege.

2. Leadership and Decision-making: Our leadership and strategic advisory team is intentionally diverse, representing a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. We believe that diverse leadership fosters a more inclusive and equitable decision-making process. We actively encourage and value input from all team members, regardless of their position or background.

3. Training and Development: We invest in ongoing training and development programs to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within our team. We also provide opportunities for team members to attend conferences and events focused on diversity and inclusion in the technology and disaster response sectors.

4. Inclusive Policies and Practices: We have implemented policies and practices that promote inclusivity and minimize barriers to opportunity. This includes flexible work arrangements, accommodations for individuals with disabilities, and a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment. We regularly review and update our policies to ensure they align with best practices and promote a welcoming and inclusive environment.

By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, we aim to create a team environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. We recognize that this is an ongoing journey, and we are committed to continuously learning, improving, and evolving our practices to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

In short, Logista is a B2G, SaaS company. Secondarily, it also serves B2B.

Logista provides either annual, 3 year or 5 year subscription models.

Our business model at Logista revolves around providing value to emergency responders and disaster professionals by offering a comprehensive and rapidly deployable logistics system tailored to their specific needs. We understand that these individuals play a critical role in minimizing human suffering during disasters, and our goal is to ensure they have the necessary resources to effectively carry out their work.

Key Customers and Beneficiaries: Our primary customers are emergency response organizations, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector entities involved in disaster response and recovery efforts. These organizations rely on Logista to enhance their logistics capabilities, streamline operations, and improve overall response effectiveness.

Products and Services: Logista offers a software platform that encompasses a range of services to support emergency responders. This includes mobile applications for data collection and resource tracking, web-based interfaces for data management and analysis, and cloud-based infrastructure for secure data storage and processing. We also provide integration capabilities to seamlessly connect with existing systems and databases.

Value Proposition: Our SaaS provides emergency managers with real-time visibility and control over their resources, enabling them to make informed decisions and optimize their operations. By leveraging modern technology, Logista enhances efficiency, coordination, and collaboration among response teams, leading to improved outcomes and reduced human suffering during disasters.

Why Customers Want Logista: Our solution offers several key benefits to disaster response organizations, including:

1. Improved Resource Allocation: Logista enables organizations to efficiently allocate and track resources such as personnel, equipment, and supplies, ensuring they are deployed where they are most needed.

2. Enhanced Situational Awareness: By providing real-time data and analytics, Logista enhances situational awareness, allowing organizations to better understand the evolving dynamics of a disaster and make data-driven decisions.

3. Streamlined Coordination: Logista facilitates seamless coordination and communication among response teams, enabling efficient collaboration and resource sharing across different agencies and organizations.

Revenue Generation: To generate revenue, Logista follows a subscription-based model. We offer different pricing tiers based on the scale and needs of the customer, ensuring that our solution is accessible to organizations of varying sizes and budgets (https://www.logistaresponse.com/pricing.html). Additionally, we explore partnerships and collaborations with relevant stakeholders to expand our reach and impact.

Overall, our business model focuses on providing value to emergency responders by offering a comprehensive and user-friendly logistics system. By addressing their specific needs and challenges, we aim to contribute to more effective disaster response and recovery efforts, ultimately minimizing human suffering and building more resilient communities.

Our plan for achieving financial sustainability at Logista involves a combination of revenue streams, including our primary SaaS product, securing service contracts with governments and organizations, and seeking sustained donations and grants. By diversifying our funding sources, we aim to ensure long-term financial stability and cover our expected expenses.

Revenue Streams:

1. Selling Products and Services: We generate revenue by offering our software platform and related services to emergency response organizations. This includes subscription fees for accessing and using our technology, as well as additional charges for onboarding, integration, and ongoing support.

2. Service Contracts: We actively pursue service contracts with governments and organizations involved in disaster response and recovery efforts. These contracts involve providing our logistics solutions as a service, tailored to the specific needs and requirements of the client. We work closely with these entities to understand their needs and deliver value through our technology.

3. Donations and Grants: We seek sustained donations and grants from philanthropic organizations, government agencies, and other funding sources that align with our mission and vision. These funds help support our research and development efforts, as well as enable us to provide discounted or free access to our technology for organizations in resource-constrained settings.

Successes to Date: 

1. Grants: Logista has been successful in receiving grants from various organizations that support social impact and technology-driven solutions, totaling $136,000. These grants have provided us with the necessary resources to develop and enhance our software platform, as well as conduct research and pilot projects.

2. Revenue Generation: We have successfully generated revenue through our subscription-based model, with 2 emergency response organizations immediately subscribing to our platform within the first two weeks of opening subscriptions. This demonstrates the value and demand for our logistics solutions in the market.
   

While financial sustainability is an ongoing journey, these examples highlight our progress in securing funding and generating revenue to support our work. We remain committed to exploring additional funding opportunities, expanding our customer base, and continuously improving our revenue streams to ensure the long-term viability and impact of Logista.

3 Year Revenue & Expense Projections

2024

2025

2026

Customers

5

41

101

Revenue

$394K

$1.2M

$2.4M

Expenses

$375K

$1M

$1.4M

Net Income/EBITDA

$19K

$200K

$1M

10 Year Client Growth Projection