Frequently Asked Questions
MISSION STATEMENT
The TOPEKA INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (www.topekaiba.org) is organized to promote the formation, growth, and viability of small and independently owned businesses in the Topeka area.
WHY JOIN TIBA?
- Strong political voice based on desires of the members, who are polled often on issues.
- Monthly luncheon speakers keep members informed on local and state issues.
- Monthly e-newsletters to alert members to legislative issues, business management information and upcoming activities.
- Educational seminars and workshops to enhance business management and growth.
- Access to honest, quality health insurance and non-insurance healthcare programs and education.
- Ability to network with other business owners in the Shawnee County area.
- TIBA website directory listing members and resources.
- Special discounts are available to members for a variety of products and services.
WHY DO WE NEED TIBA WHEN WE HAVE THE TOPEKA CHAMBER?
TIBA is for independent businesses only, not publicly-traded businesses, whereas the Topeka Chamber is dominated by big businesses and many non-businesses. The huge majority of TIBA members will have fewer than twenty employees.
WHY THE EMPHASIS ON HEALTH INSURANCE?
In poll after poll, the availability and costs of health insurance are the top concern of owners of small businesses. For the smallest of businesses, choices are extremely limited and some of the choices offer poor coverage or are risky.
HOW DOES TIBA COMMUNICATE WITH ITS MEMBERS?
Because of costs, e-mail is the main method of communication, with fax as a secondary method. The TIBA website, www.topekaiba.org, is another key. Regular mail will be used for dues billings, but not for much else.
WHO DETERMINES POLICY AND MANAGES TIBA?
TIBA's Board of Directors directs the organization with plenty of input from the members through votes and surveys. TIBA has a part-time staff now, but will have full-time staff when it is practical.
WHY SHOULD CONTRACTORS BE INTERESTED IN TIBA?
Construction firms, especially subcontractors, are traditionally underrepresented in local chambers of commerce, and a large percentage of them don't offer health benefits to their employees.
Contacts:
TIBA
P.O. Box 1403
Topeka, KS 66601-1403
783-2897
tiba@topekaiba.org
Sharon DuBois
783-2897
sharon.dubois@topekaiba.org
Ken Daniel
232-4590 x205
kdaniel@midwaywholesale.com
