Bicycle Pedaler, Humlicek Family Dental Named Wichita Chamber Small Businesses of the Year

Bicycle Pedaler and Humilcek Family Dental have been named the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Small Businesses of the Year.

The two businesses were honored, along with four other finalists, at the Small Business Awards Lunch at Mark Arts on June 1. 

“These six finalists we honor today, and many other small businesses across the region, form the backbone of our economy,” said John Rolfe, President and CEO of the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. “They drive growth, create jobs and foster prosperity in our beloved city.”

After a rigorous application process, finalists are whittled down from a large pool of nominated businesses. Judges evaluated the finalists based on key areas like leadership and performance, entrepreneurship and community involvement.

Bicycle Pedaler and Humlicek Family Dental excelled in all categories.

“Wichita is so unique and special. I can’t believe I was lucky enough to find this hidden gem,” said Dr. Ashley Humlicek, dentist and owner of Humlicek Family Dental. “I vow to continue to give back to this community in every way I can with my patient care, my ongoing support for other Wichita businesses and my advocacy for our town’s growth and development.”

Both are also young business owners who purchased their businesses from retiring owners.

“I was excited to be offered the opportunity to buy the Bicycle Pedaler. It wasn’t that I got to play with bikes all day, although that is exciting,” said Tyler Branine, owner of Bicycle Pedaler. “It was the prospect of serving a community that I love along with a core team of people who feel the same way.”

Finalists were divided into tiers based upon the number of full-time employees. Bicycle Pedaler was the Tier One (businesses with 1-to-5 employees) winner and Humlicek Family Dental won Tier Two (businesses with 6-to-20 employees). Other Tier One finalists were Foreman Law and The Hive Wichita. Other Tier Two finalists were Cheri's Bakery and Kansas Aviation Museum. 

Small businesses make up 85 percent of The Chamber’s membership. The Small Business Awards program is designed not only to provide small businesses the recognition they deserve, but also give other small businesses a chance to learn from the best.

“By supporting the SBA program and small businesses in general, we are investing in the future of our community and ensuring that Wichita remains a great place to live, work and do business for generations to come,” said Joy Eakins, 2023 Chamber Board Chair and 2015 Small Business of the Year winner. “The Chamber has been a steadfast champion for our small business community, offering invaluable resources, advocacy and networking opportunities. Through their initiatives, and with programs like the Small Business Awards, they have helped shape Wichita into a thriving business community.”