The Philipstown WireCar Foundation is a non-profit initiative created to support skills development, education, and economic opportunity in the rural town of Philipstown, South Africa. Through creative projects, partnerships, and local talent development, we aim to unlock long-term sustainability for the community.

Our work spans multiple areas – from training artisans and makers, to supporting youth education, to showcasing the town through creative ventures like a documentary film, a mobile racing game, and tourism development. All projects are designed to build skills, create jobs, and generate income that stays in Philipstown.

A wire car (or draadkar as locals call it) is a homemade toy crafted from scrap wire, soda cans, bottle caps and pure ingenuity. Each piece is unique, carrying the creativity and heritage of the makers.

Yes! Our eCommerce store allows you to purchase authentic Philipstown wire cars. We have racing models and display models. *Please note wire cars will be available for purchase soon! Until then please feel free to donate to our cause.

Every purchase supports the makers directly and funds community projects run by the Philipstown WireCar Foundation.

Currently we aren’t shipping internationally via the online store. If you would like to place an order for delivery internationally, please reach out to us at website@philipstownwirecar.com and we will do our best to accommodate your request!

The documentary tells the story of Philipstown, its people, and the race that unites the community. It highlights the creativity, resilience, and vision of the town and its foundation.

The documentary is available on Amazon Prime globally.

It’s a mobile racing game designed as a digital twin of the real town and annual race. Players can explore Philipstown virtually, race on authentic tracks, and even customize cars with charms and decals, just like the kids of Philipstown do.

All proceeds from in-game purchases go directly to the foundation. The game also drives awareness and tourism by sparking global interest in visiting Philipstown in person.

Businesses can pledge support through donations, sponsorships, or by collaborating on projects such as branded wire cars, in-game advertising, or skills development programs.

Your involvement directly impacts a rural South African community, creating jobs, supporting youth, and growing local industries.

Absolutely. Visitors are welcome to experience the real race, meet the makers, and explore the town. We encourage tourists to see firsthand how creativity and community spirit are reshaping Philipstown’s future. The race occurs annually in September. Keep an eye out for the date of the next WireCar Grand Prix race!

The Philipstown Foundation has applied for Public Benefit Organisation (PBO) status and expects approval by end October 2025. Once approved, we will be authorized to issue Section 18A tax certificates for qualifying donations. In line with SARS guidelines, these certificates may be backdated to cover donations made after our application date. If you make a donation before our PBO number is confirmed, please keep your proof of payment, and we will provide your certificate as soon as our status is finalized.

Funds are reinvested into training, education, infrastructure, and economic development programs that directly benefit the community of Philipstown.

Follow us on social media:

Facebook: @PhilipstownWireCar
Instagram: @PhilipstownWireCar
TikTok: @PhilipstownWireCar