Shared Mobility Launches New York's First E-Bike Rebate Program

Initiative Provides Income-Qualified Residents with $650 Vouchers to Purchase E-Bikes in Buffalo & Niagara Falls

Shared Mobility Inc., the Buffalo-based nonprofit organization that operates Reddy Bikeshare, is piloting New York State’s first e-bike rebate program. Thanks to a grant from Ford Philanthropy, Shared Mobility Inc. is taking its mission of low-cost access to biking one step further this year by piloting a discount program that serves low-income adults in Buffalo & Niagara Falls.

The pilot program is an expansion on the WNY E-Bike Library project, launched in 2023 with support from Independent Health, that has refurbished over 150 used e-bikes for lending programs in partnership with community-based organizations. The grant from Ford Philanthropy now evolves the scope, providing a point of sale rebate for folks purchasing new e-bikes.

“E-Bike rebates are a rapidly emerging tool that cities and states have been using to bring mobility justice and healthy living habits to low-income folks,” said Marli Parish, E-Bike Program Coordinator for Shared Mobility Inc. “By giving out rebates, we can invite participants to learn safe biking habits, build relationships with bike shops and allow folks to buy a reliable, safe and functional e-bike they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford on their own.”

Shared Mobility Inc. has launched an online interest form and encourages residents to complete it as the first step toward securing an e-bike rebate.

The formal application process will begin in the spring through random selection. Approved applicants will be required to attend an in-person E-Bike Safety Workshop designed to re-enforce safe biking habits. Upon completing the workshop, participants will be awarded a $650 e-bike rebate for use at participating local bike shops, along with additional safety accessories. The pilot program will also provide at least one adaptive e-bike to an applicant with unique mobility needs.

"Shared Mobility continues the work to connect communities and help build a transportation system that works for them," said Brian Archie of Create a Healthier Niagara Falls Collaborative and a board member of Shared Mobility Inc. "This rebate program will allow residents access to a quality e-bike that serves as a means to wellness, work, and leisure."

The pilot program is currently focused on income-qualified adults living in Buffalo and Niagara Falls, but residents outside these areas are encouraged to complete the interest form as Shared Mobility Inc. pursues opportunities to expand the program with additional funding. Applicants who do not receive an e-bike rebate will still be eligible for a free Reddy Bikeshare Pass, ensuring more people have access to sustainable and low-cost transportation options.

“Access to affordable transportation is a necessity that empowers individuals and strengthens communities. By making these e-bike rebates available to low-income families, Shared Mobility is not only helping to provide a sustainable and efficient mode of transport but also opening doors to greater opportunities and improved health," said Kathy Glieco, VP for marketing at Independent Health. “We are thrilled with our continued partnership with Shared Mobility to further expand the many bikeshare and e-bike programs that are providing healthy alternative means of transportation to residents in our community.”

This initiative is made possible through the support of key partners, including local community-based organizations like Create a Healthier Niagara Falls Collaborative, East Side Bike Club and generous funding from Independent Health and Ford Philanthropy.

“Ford Philanthropy’s investment in Shared Mobility’s E-Bike Rebate Program is more than just funding a mode of transportation; it's about supporting innovative programs that provide reliable, safe and affordable transportation options.” said Joe Provenzano, Director of Mobility and Volunteerism at Ford Philanthropy. “E-Bikes are an affordable option for community members who are experiencing transportation insecurity.”

This program is designed to be a pivotal step in breaking barriers and making sustainable transportation accessible for everyone.

For more information about the pilot program visit www.sharedmobility.org/e-bike-rebates/new-york-buffalo-niagara or contact rebates@sharedmobility.org.