Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are WIBA and KIBC?

2. Who can join?

3. Why should I join?

4. What are the benefits?

5. When and where do I join?

What are WIBA and KIBC?
The Wichita Independent Business Association (WIBA) and the Kansas Independent Business Coalition (KIBC) are associations of privately owned businesses throughout the state of Kansas. Our membership ranges from the individual sole proprietor operating a home-based business to large corporations withthousands of employees – such as Via Christi and Koch Industries. WIBA serves members in the Wichita area, and KIBC organizations serve businesses throughout the state. Currently, we have more than 1,000 business members representing approximately 250 industries, including more than 300 self-employed and home-based businesses.

Who can join?
The business entity is the actual member. The benefits and services are then available to all owners,employees, and family members of that business. The criteria for membership are simple:

• The business must be privately owned – the stock of the company, if incorporated, cannot be publicly traded;
• The business must operate at least 30 hours per week in Sedgwick County to qualify for WIBA health and dental benefits; and
• Self-employed and home-based businesses are eligible.

Why should I join?
Membership provides your company with the competitive advantage of a strong unified voice in manyarenas, including political advocacy and health care. By networking with other business owners in thecommunity, you will have access to resources that can:

• Give you the advantage to overcome business obstacles and challenges;
• Increase your profitability; and
• Improve the atmosphere of free enterprise, which is the core of a strong democracy.

What are the benefits?
WIBA and our statewide membership provides many benefits, such as:

• A strong voice in government at the local, state and federal level;
• Continuing education opportunities;
• Access to a first-class meeting facility with ample parking in downtown Wichita;
• Negotiated group-rated discounts on health, dental and vision insurance as well as prescriptiondrug coverage; and
• Networking opportunities during the monthly luncheon and social events held throughout theyear.

WIBA is THE voice of independent business.

When and where do I join?
As long as you meet membership requirements, you can join at any time. To start enjoying member benefits:

• Click here to join online
• Print and complete the membership application now and send it to us at the address listed below;
• Call the WIBA/KIBC office at 316-267-8987 (toll free 1-800-279-9422); or
• Stop by the office at 445 N. Waco, Wichita, KS 67202. (Southwest corner of Central & Waco)