CYCLE Kids Company Profile

Background

CYCLE Kids is a nonprofit organization founded in 2004, dedicated to promoting the physical and emotional well-being of children through cycling and nutrition education. The organization collaborates with schools, particularly in underserved and racially diverse communities, to provide programs that encourage active lifestyles and healthy habits among children.

Key Strategic Focus

CYCLE Kids focuses on integrating cycling into school curricula to combat childhood obesity and promote overall health. The program includes:

• Bicycle Skills and Safety Training: Teaching children how to ride safely and confidently.

• Nutrition Education: Educating students on healthy eating habits.

• Physical Activity Promotion: Encouraging regular exercise to improve physical and mental health.

The organization targets elementary schools in low-income areas, communities affected by climate change, and Native American communities, aiming to instill lifelong healthy habits in children.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, CYCLE Kids relies on donations, grants, and fundraising initiatives. In the fiscal year ending June 2023, the organization reported:

• Total Revenue: $1,074,506

• Total Expenses: $809,930

• Net Assets: $1,760,109

The majority of revenue comes from contributions, with additional income from program services and investments.

Program Development

CYCLE Kids has developed a comprehensive curriculum in collaboration with Boston University's Sargent College for Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. The program aligns with national core learning standards and includes:

• Physical Education Classes: Hands-on bicycle riding sessions.

• Classroom Lessons: Focused on nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices.

The program has been implemented in various communities, including:

• Somerville, Massachusetts: Active since 2004, serving over 3,500 students across seven schools.

• Jasper School District, Arkansas: Partnered with the Walton Family Foundation to reach over 330 students in three schools.

• Navajo Nation: Collaborated with NavajoYES! to serve more than 3,700 students across four schools.

Technological Platform and Innovation

CYCLE Kids has expanded its impact through the development of a line of children's bicycles and helmets. Five percent of proceeds from these products support the organization's programs, providing a sustainable funding source and promoting cycling among children.

Leadership Team

Julianne Idlet serves as the Executive Director and Founder of CYCLE Kids. With over 20 years of experience in technology startups and a background as a USA Cycling Coach and former coach of the Harvard University cycling team, Idlet has been instrumental in developing and expanding the organization's programs. In 2022, she was honored by the United Nations as a laureate for World Bicycle Day for her leadership in promoting cycling for children.

The Board of Directors includes professionals from various sectors:

• April Galda Joyce: Board Chair, Managing Director, Chief Culture Officer at Atlantic Financial Group.

• Barry A. Adelman: Senior Partner at Friedman Kaplan Seiler & Adelman.

• Carolyn Bailey: Certified Health Counselor.

• Leo Brea: CEO and Executive Board Member at Veconinter Group.

• Stuart Koman, PhD: Founder, President, and CEO of Walden Behavioral Care.

• Josh Konvisser: EY Global Deputy General Counsel—Contracts, Chief Commercial Counsel at Ernst & Young LLP.

• Vicki Reed: Branding Consultant and Leadership Coach.

• Lauren Scopaz Daunais: Vice President of Strategy & Operations at Stamford Cradle to Career.

• Marvin Smith: SVP Global Sales and Business Development at Volansi.

• Nicholas von Moltke: President & CEO at Prosperity Life Insurance Group.

• Steven Venizelos: Retired PE Teacher from Boston Public Schools.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The global kids' bicycle market is projected to reach $26.75 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.7% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is driven by increasing awareness of health benefits associated with cycling and rising demand for bicycles as a fun activity among children.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the kids' bicycle market include:

• Giant Bicycles: Offers a wide range of bikes for all ages, including high-performance road bikes and mountain bikes.

• Dynacraft Wheels: Known for popular character-themed and attractively designed children's bikes.

• Trek Bicycle Corporation: Provides a variety of bicycles catering to different age groups and riding preferences.

• SCOTT Sports SA: Offers innovative designs and high-quality bikes for young riders.

• Cycling Sports Group, Inc.: Parent company of brands like GT Bicycles and Cannondale, providing diverse options for children.

• MERIDA BIKES: Known for durable and performance-oriented bicycles suitable for young riders.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

CYCLE Kids has established significant partnerships to enhance its programs:

• Boston University: Collaborated to develop a curriculum that meets national core learning standards.

• NavajoYES!: Partnered to bring programs to schools within the Navajo Nation.

• Walton Family Foundation: Supported the expansion of programs in the Ozark Mountains, Arkansas.

• Ogilvy Health: Provided pro bono creative services for fundraising campaigns.

• Five Tier, Inc.: Offered free media placements to increase visibility and support fundraising efforts.

Operational Insights

CYCLE Kids differentiates itself by integrating cycling education with nutrition and health lessons, targeting underserved communities. The organization's focus on collaboration with schools and community groups allows for effective program implementation and sustainability. The development of a proprietary line of children's bicycles and helmets not only generates additional funding but also reinforces the organization's mission by promoting cycling directly to families.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

CYCLE Kids aims to expand its reach to communities across all 50 states, focusing on areas with high needs and limited access to health and wellness programs. The organization plans to:

• Increase Program Implementation: Partner with more schools and districts to introduce the CYCLE Kids curriculum.

• Enhance Product Offerings: Develop and market additional cycling-related products to support funding and promote cycling.

• Strengthen Partnerships: Collaborate with more organizations and foundations to secure funding and resources.

• Measure Impact: Conduct research and gather data to assess program effectiveness and inform future initiatives.

Contact Information

For more information about CYCLE Kids and its programs, please visit their official website: CYCLE Kids