Award winning start-up GoRoadie, an online platform which enables learner drivers to connect with driving instructors, has taken to Aberdeen’s roads as part of its growth plans.
Launched in 2017 by developers Michael Carr and Barry White, the Dundee-based company helps driving students search, compare and book a driving instructor who suits them. It also houses tools which allow instructors to easily manage their students, holding necessary contact details in one place.
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GoRoadie, boosted with the support of Elevator’s 12-week accelerator programme, designed to maximise business potential, began operations in Aberdeen this March. Following a stringent training process, the company has already partnered with 12 instructors.
Barry White, co-founder of GoRoadie said, “We are hugely excited to be launching in Aberdeen. We have been working with instructors and students in the city for the past month to prepare for our launch, and their feedback has been extremely valuable.
“We have been running the service in Dundee for the past six months with almost 1,000 learners booking through our platform. We have strategic plans to grow GoRoadie nationally, with our fundamental goal being to create jobs. In the next 12 months we aim to recruit five employees, while continuing to support instructors who work for national franchises become independent.
“One day we hope to be recognised as the Airbnb for driving instructors; a footprint in Aberdeen is our first step in this process.”
Andy Campbell, Head of Elevator’s Accelerator, said: “At Elevator we are constantly looking for the next big thing, the game-changers and spirited entrepreneurs – Michael and Barry are exactly that. We were delighted to provide ongoing support for GoRoadie’s development, we see real potential for the company and its concept.”
Commenting on the platform, current driving instructor James McCabe of JSM, said: “I have already picked up a couple of new students via GoRoadie – I can see real benefit from this platform. I am excited to make each student’s teaching experience a more interactive one, using modern technology to help enhance their learning coupled with my expertise.”
Early this year, GoRoadie was announced as SME100’s Most Innovative Solution for Locating Driving Instructors. It also secured the Commended Side Hustle of the Year Award at the UK Startups Awards in London last year.
