Bikes for the World is a self-financing sponsored project of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association.

BfW began in January 2005.  BfW covers its expenses principally from three sources:

• Individual donations accompanying the donation of bicycles.  During the three years 2005-2007 an average of almost $9 came in with each donated bicycle.
• Payments from overseas partners covering all or part of the direct shipping costs of bicycles.  During 2007 partners paid all or part of each shipment’s direct costs, reflecting the quality and desirability of the items donated.  BfW  A conservative estimate of the total value of bicycle shipments in 2006 came to over $300,000.
• Program grants and individual and corporate donations unrelated to the donation of bicycles.  Donors include Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI), Potomac Pedlers Toudring Club, Internaitonal Monetary Fund CPAC, and the Vienna (VA) Rotary Club.  The City of Rockville Department of Recreation has contracted Bikes for the World to do bike & pedestrian safety training in the Rockville schools.  A once-a-year appeal is mailed or e-mailed to supporters.

A fourth and lesser source of income is the sale of antique and other bikes and donations deemed unsuitable for overseas use. An informal technical committee establishes criteria, monitors donations, and handles sales with “transparency” to protect BfW's and the public’s interests.

BfW expenses include international shipping of donated goods, office and administration, website and communications, truck rental and fuel purchases associated with the collection of bicycles, and (beginning April 2005) a modest salary for the project director. Through its first three years (2005-07), storage costs have been minimal (provided in-kind by corporate supporters).  Five percent of BfW income compensates the sponsoring agency—Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA)--for board oversight, financial administration, audit, and use of WABA’s non-profit status.

Bikes for the World has been managed conservatively during its initial three years, ending each year with a surplus.  2007 income is projected to reach $200,000.  2008 income is projected to be a little over $220,000 and expenses roughly about $210,000.  BfW's financial management is audited as part of an overall audit of WABA.  Income and expense statements will be posted (and if not, just ask).   

The cost per bicycle delivered during 2005-06 was in the range of $16, rising to $20/bike in 2007 as a result of initiation of the Rockville Youth Bike Project.