By collaborating with the real estate developer Hillwood, the firm hopes to provide services to more than 10,000 locals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

According to a March 16 press release, the Ireland-based drone delivery startup Manna is starting its first U.S. trial for last-mile operations as it seeks to grow internationally.

According to the press release, Manna is collaborating with the real estate development firm Hillwood to provide delivery services to more than 10,000 households in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, subject to Federal Aviation Administration permission.

Deliveries for coffee, food, medical supplies, and other items are made by Manna's own drone fleet, which is directly controlled by Manna and available to food tech companies and online food marketplaces through API. The Manna Drone Delivery app allows users to download, place orders, and pay, according to the business' website.

More than $40 million has been donated to Manna to date. Coca-Cola HBC, The Coca-Cola Company's bottling partner, is one of the investors. According to the press announcement, Coca-Cola HBC will "help to find potential for Manna to grow throughout Coca-Cola HBC's territories" over time.

As they try to improve last-mile capabilities, businesses have started executing ambitious plans for drone delivery networks in the U.S. For instance, California-based Zipline recently disclosed plans for a home delivery service that makes use of a drone-and-droid combination.