About Us
Whirlwind is a social business that provides appropriate mobility technology for wheelchair riders in the developing world. We focus on creating durable designs for harsh village environments and product usability that gives the rider the mobility required to reach their maximum personal independence and integration into society. By involving riders at every stage from design to distribution Whirlwind has become a leader in the field with recognition from the World Health Organization and many Disabled Persons Organizations. As a program of San Francisco State University's Institute for Civic and Community Engagement, it is an international expression of SFSU's social justice mission. Through regional medium-scale manufacturing in the developing world and small local shops, Whirlwind has benefited tens of thousands of wheelchair riders in over 50 countries. Whirlwind products are differentiated by their usefulness for the rider, design using locally available materials for repair-ability, low cost, and long lifespan.