World Bicycle Relief is a nonprofit social enterprise that helps governments, NGOs, foundations and communities overcome mobility poverty through rider-centered bicycle mobility solutions. By integrating purpose-designed bicycles with local service networks, evidence-based implementation and long-term support, we help more people reach education, healthcare and economic opportunity.

With our purpose-designed Buffalo Bicycles, individuals in low-income regions are a force for change, unlocking pathways to new opportunities for themselves, their families and entire communities.

OUR MISSION AND VISION

World Bicycle Relief mobilizes communities in rural regions around the world to thrive with life-changing bicycles.

We aspire for individuals to have access to an appropriate transport option that is affordable, safe, and meets their needs and preferences. We are experts in bicycle mobility and design bicycle mobility solutions.

We envision a world where bicycles improve healthcare and education outcomes and broaden economic opportunities so individuals and communities can thrive. 

We partner with governments, NGOs and local organizations to integrate bicycle mobility into underserved markets with millions of people who lack reliable transportation. Our nonprofit social enterprise model strengthens local bicycle ecosystems through quality bicycles, trained mechanics, spare parts and ongoing support, helping communities sustain mobility long after implementation.

World Bicycle Relief was founded in 2005 by F.K. Day and Leah Missbach Day in response to the Indian Ocean tsunami. As a founder of SRAM Corporation and a leader in product development, F.K.’s role offered a unique opportunity to problem-solve with cycling industry leaders. As a documentary photographer, Leah’s gift for collecting and sharing stories brought the devastation of those affected by the tsunami to light. Together, with support from SRAM and other industry leaders, F.K. and Leah launched World Bicycle Relief to provide bicycles for those in need. In partnership with aid organizations in Sri Lanka, we distributed more than 24,000 bicycles to displaced survivors, providing access to education, healthcare, and livelihoods while reconnecting entire communities.

Today, we’ve helped accelerate the journey out of poverty for more than 5 million people in 28 countries. 

Fast Company 2025 Innovation by Design Award- Transportation Design
2025 German Design Award Winner
2024 Eurobike Awards – Gold Winner
Registered GuideStar Exchange Member
Accepted charity of the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC#: 95568)
Great Nonprofits Top-Rated Charity
Global Impact Participating Member
2020 SDG Action Award
2019 Unicef Chicago Humanitarian Award Honoree
2019 Lipman Family Foundation Prize Winner
2017 Bertha and Carl Benz Prize for Mobility
2015 Fast Company Most Innovative Award
2013 Schwab Foundation Social Entrepreneur of the Year
2011 Chicago Innovation Awards Winner
United Nations Environment Programme Partner
#12 on Barrons’ Top 25 Most Effective Philanthropies