Chamber Announces 2024 Small Businesses of the Year

Dan’s Heating and Cooling, The Workroom and Thomas Grey Interiors were named the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Small Businesses of the Year. The three winners were among nine finalists for this year’s Small Business Awards, which celebrated its 20^th anniversary.

Awards finalists were divided into three tiers based upon the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) employees. Thomas Grey Interiors represented Tier One (businesses with 1-5 FTE), The Workroom represented Tier Two (businesses with 6-20 FTE) and Dan’s Heating and Cooling represented Tier Three (businesses with 21-100 FTE). Judges evaluated the finalists based on key areas, including entrepreneurship, business culture and community involvement.

Dan’s Heating and Cooling, a leader in HVAC services, installs high-efficiency Trane heating and air conditioning equipment and provides exceptional service. They also service all makes and models of HVAC equipment. Dan's has been in business since 1975.

“There is a lot of bad stuff going on in the world. You might not be able to change that, but you can change the lives of your employees and your business,” said Michael McDowell, President of Dan’s Heating and Cooling. “Giving back to the community means nothing if you don’t give back to your employees.”

The Workroom, a creative hub for custom interiors and local art, is often celebrated for its dedication to promoting local talent and craftsmanship. Founded in 2013, The Workroom features more than 100 artists and makers, 12 retail booths for entrepreneurs and a retail incubator space.

“I couldn’t do all of this without a business community that supports my vision of the arts,” said Janelle King, owner of The Workroom.

Thomas Grey Interiors excels in personalized interior design, offering bespoke solutions that reflect clients' unique styles. The team of professional interior designers ensures dedicated, consistent service and a direct, attentive approach distinguishing them from larger firms.

“As small businesses, the odds are stacked against us,” said Rachel Thomas-Murphy, who opened Thomas Grey Interiors in 2012. “This is a testament to the resilience of small businesses and the hard work we do.”

Small businesses make up more than 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.

“Small businesses play a crucial role in building and sustaining our community,” said John Rolfe, President and CEO of the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. “They create local jobs and reinvest in our neighborhoods. They sponsor local events, support charitable causes and contribute to the overall quality of life in Wichita. When you support a small business, you are not just supporting an entrepreneur, you are investing in the future of our community.”

Videos highlighting each of the finalists are posted to the Chamber’s YouTube channel, and photos from the event are posted to our Facebook page.

2024 Small Business Awards Finalists