North America’s First Long-Distance Ride-Sharing App for Events Wants to Expand Options for Intercity Travel

Today launched North America’s first long-distance ride-sharing platform built specifically for events. Called Flok, the platform connects traveling attendees who have extra seats in their cars with others from their city who need a lift to the same event.

Jacob Hoggard of Hedley and Daniel Weinand of Shopify are among the key investors financially backing the Vancouver-born ride-sharing app.

“Our generation, millennials, have 30 percent fewer cars than the previous generation,” said Nadine Robinson, cofounder and COO. “The car is no longer the ‘crowned jewel’ and ownership is not a priority – instead, we want to car share, take transit, walk, or bike. But without a car, it can be incredibly expensive and inconvenient to leave the city.”

Unlike ride-sharing giants Uber and Lyft, Flok’s drivers do not make a profit beyond the cost of travel – passengers merely contribute to the expenses of the trip. Both parties benefit from decreased travel costs and environmental impact, and meet others journeying to the same destination. The platform aims to expand options for intercity travel, offering an alternative form of transportation from the limited options available today – namely buses, planes, or personal vehicles.

“The driver is paired with travel companions en route to the same event. This establishes a common ground and helps break the ice faster,” said Clio de la Llave, cofounder and CEO. “Most events are already social in nature, but Flok gives attendees a head start on the mingling.”

Currently, the free app is available for iPhones, with an Android version slated for completion later this year.