FAQ
What is the MIF?
The Mobility Independence Foundation (MIF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit technology organization dedicated to enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities by developing and freely sharing open‑source mobility solutions. Driven by those with disabilities for those with disabilities, MIF’s mission is to create innovative, repairable, and universally accessible designs that address real‑world challenges—such as long repair delays and costly equipment replacements—that too often limit independence. By making product designs, components, and step‑by‑step instructions openly available, the foundation empowers users and caregivers to build, adapt, and repair their own mobility equipment, fostering self‑reliance and dignity. Through this community‑centered, open‑source approach, MIF works to create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the tools and opportunity to live a purpose‑driven life.
What is open-source? What is open-hardware?
Open-source is when the source code is available for users to view, edit, and modify freely. Open-hardware is the hardware version of open-source: the plans and schematics are available for users to view, edit, and modify freely.
How does open-hardware work?
The MIF hosts a repository of open-source designs that any individual can access, modify, or customize however they choose for their own individual needs.
The MIF will offer a license to manufacture these designs only to businesses who agree to open-source principles and any fees collected from manufacturing partners will be used strictly to revitalize the Mobility Independence Foundation’s Open-Source Hardware Community through ongoing open-source projects and academic programs that the MIF sponsors and administers.
Why use open-hardware?
Through this process, we can remove the need for a patent system by providing funding for the inventive process through grants and merit-based awards. Authorship will be preserved and proper citations and credit will still be honored, but the innovative process need not be restrained by vicious patent-enforcement that forbids others from contributing to the design process. Product improvement will be faster, better, and more accessible than ever, because those who face challenges can express their needs, the community can respond promptly, and we can provide the incentive of grant-based awards for those who provide the best solutions, ensuring the march of progress continues.
How do I get involved?
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