Wichita Falls Woman Named Texas Small Business Person of the Year

Nichole Kirk's Dear Heart store recognized for growth and community impact.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life featuring a collection of elegant, polished objects representing a successful small retail business, arranged on a clean, monochromatic background with dramatic lighting to symbolize the growth and impact of a local enterprise.A prestigious award recognizes the entrepreneurial spirit and community impact of a thriving small business in Wichita Falls.Wichita Falls Today

Nichole Kirk, the owner of Dear Heart, a retail store in Wichita Falls, Texas, has been named the 2026 Texas Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Kirk will be one of 53 winners invited to attend ceremonies in Washington, D.C. on May 3-4 to celebrate their achievements.

Why it matters

The Small Business Person of the Year award recognizes entrepreneurs who have demonstrated success and growth in their businesses, as well as a commitment to their local communities. Kirk's recognition highlights the vibrant small business community in Wichita Falls and the positive impact that locally-owned stores can have.

The details

Dear Heart, a retail store founded by Nichole Kirk, has grown significantly in recent years through a willingness to take on new opportunities and a faith-driven approach to business. The store sells a variety of home goods, gifts, and apparel.

  • Nichole Kirk was named the 2026 Texas Small Business Person of the Year.
  • The award ceremony will take place on May 3-4, 2026 in Washington, D.C.

The players

Nichole Kirk

The owner of Dear Heart, a retail store in Wichita Falls, Texas, who was named the 2026 Texas Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Dear Heart

A retail store in Wichita Falls, Texas that sells home goods, gifts, and apparel, and is owned by Nichole Kirk.

U.S. Small Business Administration

The federal agency that selected Nichole Kirk as the 2026 Texas Small Business Person of the Year.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He is the one leading the way — I just keep following his lead. Dear Heart has grown through saying 'yes,' faith, and a willingness to follow Jesus step by step, even when the path made no sense,”

— Nichole Kirk, Owner, Dear Heart

What’s next

Nichole Kirk and the other 52 Small Business Person of the Year winners will be honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on May 3-4, 2026.

The takeaway

Nichole Kirk's recognition as the Texas Small Business Person of the Year showcases the success and community impact that can be achieved by locally-owned small businesses that embrace faith, flexibility, and a willingness to take on new opportunities.