Chicago, IL – The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) is thrilled to announce the first Women in the Bicycle Industry (WIBI) In-Person Gathering, taking place Saturday, September 20, 2025, in Chicago, IL. This free, full-day event is designed to connect and empower women, trans, femme, and non-binary individuals working in the cycling industry - whether they're shop owners, mechanics, marketers, supply chain professionals, athletes, or advocates.
Hosted in partnership with the women-run BFF Bikes, this gathering promises a day of inspiration, networking, and industry insight. Attendees can expect engaging workshops, heartfelt story sharing, and valuable panel discussions—all in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Highlights of the Day Include:
● Morning Group Ride (8:00 AM) – Casual pace, open to all skill levels
● Coffee + Conversation – Relaxed community meet-up at a local café
● Workshops & Panels (11:00 AM–4:30 PM) – Industry discussions, personal stories, and actionable insights
● Tour of BFF Bikes (4:45–5:15 PM) – A peek inside Chicago's premier women-run bike shop
● Evening Social & Networking Dinner (5:30 PM) – An optional dinner and social to wrap up the day
Location: Chicago Public Library – Logan Square Branch, 3030 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 - (Just 2 miles from BFF Bikes)
"Recognizing women in the bike industry isn't a new initiative, but it's more important than ever as fostering inclusive spaces strengthens the entire industry," says Megan Schmidt, NBDA Program Developer.
"This Chicago gathering is the perfect chance to build on the momentum this community has created while welcoming new voices to the conversation."
Registration is free and open now:
https://nbda.com/events/#!event/2025/9/20/women-in-the-bicycle-industry-wibi-in-person-gathering
The program is open to all women in the bicycle industry, regardless of NBDA membership, and aims to be both inclusive and action-oriented. Participants and supporters can sign up via a dedicated form on the NBDA website starting today.
WIBI is powered by partnership
We're grateful to WIBI Founding Supporters Mike's Bikes, Ikeono, QBP, Woom, ISU Marvin Insurance, and LIV, who help make these events possible. Industry brands are invited to support through event collaboration, job submissions, and mentorship involvement. Interested organizations can add their logo as a partner and actively participate in shaping a more equitable future for the cycling world.
Contact: megan@nbda.com for more information.
About WIBI: Women in the Bicycle Industry (WIBI) is a new NBDA initiative designed to empower, connect, and celebrate women across all sectors of the cycling industry. Through mentorship, events, career resources, and community spaces, WIBI creates intentional opportunities for growth, leadership, and connection open to all women in the cycling industry, regardless of NBDA membership. To learn more, sign up, or get involved, visit:
https://nbda.com/women-in-the-bicycle-industry
About NBDA: The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) is a non-profit organization representing the interests of independent bicycle dealers in the United States. Committed to advancing the bicycle industry and promoting cycling as a healthy and sustainable mode of transportation, the NBDA collaborates with industry stakeholders to address critical issues and foster growth within the cycling community.
For more information about the benefits of NBDA membership and to join, please visit the NBDA Website.
