Minimalist Backpack Shatters Crowdfunding Target In Weeks

Dave Zuverink, creator of the Slimfold Wallet, just shattered a $20,000 Kickstarter goal for his new invention, the Slimfold SlimPack.

Raising over $112,000 since August 1st, fans of the Slimfold Wallet - a modern, space-saving take on an essential item - pledged overwhelming support for Slimfold's new product.

In designing the SlimPack, Zuverink has applied what is quickly becoming his trademark approach to designing everyday items for the modern person - a slick, ergonomic design that is intended to hold the modern devices everyone carries around these days.

But his skill goes well beyond simply making a great product - Zuverink has quickly mastered the art of running a successful Kickstarter, combining his own passion for innovation with feedback and validation from his core customers.

The pack is made of a high quality material that is incredibly water resistant, which will allow wearers to breathe a sigh of relief if a sudden rainstorm breaks out, instead of running for cover to save their devices.

The Soft Shell material meets Class 2 WSRS standards, meaning it even resists top-down, heavy flow water, not just your average rain. And the zippers, the weak spot of many allegedly waterproof backpacks, are specially designed to be leak-proof.

The design of the bag itself is minimal, ergonomic and incredibly light, weighing in at only 1.5 pounds. The main compartment is designed to fit a "15 MacBook Pro, and will hold most laptops under that size. The front pocket is also iPad ready, with additional space in both pockets for extras like cameras, notepads or other items.

Backers were also thrilled at the geometric design - the unique triangular shape of the bag allows bulkier items (like a camera) to be safely stored without damage. And when the bag opens up, this patent-pending shape allows the wearer to easily see everything inside the pack - no more rummaging.

It's no surprise here that necessity was the mother of Zuverink's invention - after receiving a disappointing backpack this past Christmas, Dave decided to take things into his own hands.

He recently shared the story of the SlimPack's birth.

"Oddly, much of the design process has felt like waiting for Christmas when there's something you really want to get."

The success of the campaign shows that Zuverink isn't alone in his need for a high quality, professional looking pack designed for mobile devices and a mobile lifestyle.

In fact, he didn't undertake this project based on his needs alone - to validate his idea, he went to those who had backed his previous Kickstarter campaigns and polled them on what product they wanted to see next.

"Along with the usual various varieties of wallets they were interested in, "minimal backpack" came back as the #1 request! Once I knew my customers shared my same problem, I was even more motivated to solve it," Zuverink said.

The project's 696 backers definitely feel that he has indeed solved their problem - the project met its funding goal in a mere 6 hours and has since accrued over five times the initial $20,000 goal. Past experiences played a key role in the project's instant success - Zuverink has established a reputation as an innovative entrepreneur who follows through on his campaign rewards.

Backers were quick to comment on their excitement - user Morri Young remarked on August 7th, "I also jumped in because I love the idea that this backpack can safely carry a camera and lens (Fuji X-Pro2+56mm) as well as a 9.5" ipad... My carry needs would be complete."

Also apparent in the Kickstarter comments is how seriously Zuverink takes input from his backers. He answers any and all questions and clearly values all feedback he receives.

For any aspiring entrepreneurs looking to get funding via Kickstart, Dave Zuverink is an excellent example of an entrepreneur who has mastered the use of this powerful platform.