Hello! I’m Alex Wolf, a dedicated father with a passion for problem-solving and helping others. Solving complex challenges has been at the heart of my career for years—and still is today. With a background in software engineering at Microsoft and Intel, I now run an small and independent analytics company that helps small businesses grow by capturing and analyzing performance data.

One of my first clients, Paxis Backpacks, had an innovative idea: a backpack with a hinged compartment that swings from back to front, offering instant access to gear without needing to remove the pack. I quickly became a fan of their innovation and was thrilled to be bringing the backpack to new markets.

During my time with Paxis, I discovered a concept that had been left on the drawing board—a fanny pack designed to attach to a wheelchair using the same patented swing technology as the Paxis backpack. This idea captured my imagination and wouldn’t let go. The result is Voyager: a pack that swings forward to provide wheelchair users with instant access to their belongings.

As I shared this idea with the community, the enthusiasm and need for such a product became overwhelmingly clear. Voyager isn’t just a great idea—it’s a mission to enhance accessibility and independence for wheelchair users. But to bring this vision to life, I need the support of investors who share my passion for innovation and inclusivity. With your help, we can make this revolutionary product a reality.

We are aiming to raise $393,000 to bring 1,000 units to market. This funding will cover all essential steps, including design, prototyping, validation, intellectual property protection, production tooling, manufacturing costs, and product marketing. Below is a detailed breakdown of the costs in USD.

research and prep: 6,500

design: 28,000

prototyping: 16,750

validation: 14,000

IP: 16,750

production tooling: 50,750

production costs: 125,500

product marketing: 70,000

tax: 65,000

If we don’t reach our goal, our priority will be to explore ways to reduce the initial production run or investigate alternative options to bring Voyager to wheelchair users. If production proves unfeasible, we would allocate a portion of the funds to related charities we’ve met along the way while continuing research and development on other accessibility-focused products left behind on the Paxis drawing board.

What You’ll Get for Supporting Voyager

Tier 1: Supporter Level

Contribution: $10–$25
Perks:

• Digital thank-you email with a personalized note of gratitude.
• Name listed on the campaign’s “Supporter Wall” on the website.

Tier 2: Advocate Level

Contribution: $50–$75
Perks:

• All perks from Tier 1.
• A limited-edition Voyager Campaign Sticker or decal.
• Social media shout-out to thank you publicly for your support.

Tier 3: Ambassador Level

Contribution: $100–$150
Perks:

• All perks from Tiers 1 & 2.
• A custom Voyager campaign T-shirt.

Tier 4: Partner Level

Contribution: $250–$500
Perks:

• All perks from Tiers 1–3.
• An early-access discount on the Voyager Chairpack once it launches.

Tier 5: Visionary Level

Contribution: $1,000–$2,500
Perks:

• All perks from Tiers 1–4.
• A Paxis ARC-Swing Backpack of your choice: paxispax.com/shop

Tier 6: Trailblazer Level

Contribution: $5,000+
Perks:

• All perks from Tiers 1–5.
• Receive a Voyager Backpack prototype for feedback before the final launch.
• Recognition as a “Founding Sponsor” on the campaign’s website and promotional materials.

Tier 7: Legacy Level

Contribution: $10,000+
Perks:

• All perks from Tiers 1–6.
• Your name/logo displayed on marketing materials as a top-tier contributor (if business-related).
• A signed limited-edition Voyager Chairpack with serial number “#001.”

By supporting our campaign, you’re contributing to a project that empowers wheelchair users, offering them enhanced accessibility and convenience in their daily lives. Your generous donations will help us bring Voyager to life, making a positive difference.

Risks & Challenges

Of course there are risks trying to do great things, no matter how inspired, and in the spirit of transparency, here are the ones we are working on to mitigate:

User Experience Risks

• Functionality Issues: The product may not meet the needs or expectations of wheelchair users if not properly tested.
• Durability and Longevity: If the pack doesn’t hold up to frequent use, it could lead to customer dissatisfaction.

Mitigation: Extensive usability testing and feedback from wheelchair users during development can ensure the product meets their needs effectively.

Manufacturing Risks

• Supplier Reliability: Delays or issues with suppliers for components and materials can slow production.
• Quality Control: Ensuring consistent quality across all units, especially for accessibility products, can be challenging.
• Production Volume: Scaling production for larger orders might lead to logistical challenges or increased costs.

Mitigation: Partnering with reputable manufacturers and conducting rigorous quality checks will help maintain production integrity.

Development and Design Risks

• Prototyping Challenges: The design may require more iterations than planned to ensure functionality and durability.
• Regulatory Compliance: Meeting safety and regulatory standards (e.g., for medical or assistive devices) can add complexity and delay production.
• Intellectual Property (IP): Protecting the unique design and features can be time-consuming and costly.

Mitigation: Working with experienced designers and engineers, as well as engaging with regulatory consultants early, can minimize these risks.

Financial Risks

• Production Costs: Manufacturing costs might exceed projections due to unforeseen expenses in tooling, materials, or labor.
• Funding Shortfalls: If the full funding goal isn’t met, production volume or quality might need to be adjusted.
• Market Demand: There is a risk that initial sales might not cover ongoing costs, especially if marketing doesn’t reach the target audience effectively.

Mitigation: Careful budgeting, phased production, and diversifying funding sources can help manage financial risks.

Other Ways You Can Help

We’d love for you to help us get the word out and make some noise about Voyager. We’d also love to hear from you about Voyager. Send us a note of support and encouragement. Thank you!