If you’ve recently started a business or are thinking of launching one, you’ve likely heard the phrase “it’s not what you know, but who you know.” This might sound cliché, but in the world of entrepreneurship, having the right connections can often make the difference between success and failure. Whether you need advice, mentorship, partnerships, or even funding, attending networking events can be a game changer. But with so many options out there, where should you focus your energy?
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best networking events for new UK entrepreneurs. Each event offers something unique, so no matter your industry or business stage, you’ll find an option that suits you.
The Business Show
Let’s kick things off with a giant in the world of networking events. The Business Show is one of the largest and most well-known business expos in the UK. Held biannually in London, it attracts over 25,000 visitors, with workshops, masterclasses, and over 500 exhibitors. It’s an excellent opportunity for any new entrepreneur to gain insights into a broad range of industries.
The beauty of The Business Show lies in its diversity. From keynote speeches by industry leaders to niche-specific workshops, you can tailor your experience to what’s most relevant to your business. The event is a hotbed of new opportunities, and with so many start-ups in attendance, you won’t feel like a small fish in a big pond. The environment is collaborative and supportive – perfect for newcomers.
StartUp Britain Events
StartUp Britain is a fantastic initiative designed to support new entrepreneurs in the UK. Throughout the year, they host a variety of events ranging from workshops to networking evenings. One of their most popular initiatives is the StartUp Britain bus tour, which travels to various cities, bringing advice and support to budding entrepreneurs across the country. This gives you the chance to network with other entrepreneurs and local business leaders, and to access free resources and mentoring.
StartUp Britain’s events are particularly attractive for those who are still in the early stages of their business journey. It’s an informal, welcoming environment where you can get honest, practical advice while expanding your network. Whether you’re just forming an idea or have already started your business, the events are packed with valuable insights and potential connections.
Entrepreneurs Network (TEN)
For those looking to form meaningful connections with peers and influential figures in the entrepreneurial community, The Entrepreneurs Network (TEN) offers some fantastic opportunities. It’s a think tank that connects entrepreneurs with policymakers, MPs, and industry experts. They regularly host events where you can engage in lively discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing start-ups.
If you’re looking to make connections that could influence your business on a policy level, this is the place to be. The Entrepreneurs Network isn’t just about exchanging business cards; it’s about creating meaningful, long-term relationships that can have a tangible impact on your business and the wider industry.
Silicon Drinkabout
Despite the slightly playful name, Silicon Drinkabout is serious about fostering connections among the start-up community. Held every Friday in various cities across the UK, this event brings together founders, developers, investors, and tech enthusiasts in an informal setting. It’s particularly popular among tech entrepreneurs, but you’ll find people from a wide range of industries attending.
What makes Silicon Drinkabout special is its relaxed and informal vibe. There are no keynote speeches or scheduled workshops – just an opportunity to meet and chat with fellow entrepreneurs over a drink. If the thought of large conferences feels overwhelming, Silicon Drinkabout is a great way to ease into the world of networking without the pressure.
Meetup Groups for Entrepreneurs
Sometimes the best networking opportunities are closer than you think. Meetup is a platform where you can find local networking groups that cater specifically to entrepreneurs and start-up founders. From early-morning breakfast meetups to evening sessions, there are groups all over the UK offering opportunities to network with like-minded individuals.
What’s great about Meetup groups is that they tend to be smaller and more intimate than larger conferences or expos. This gives you the chance to build deeper relationships with the people you meet. Some of the most popular groups include ‘London Startups’, ‘Bristol Entrepreneurs’, and ‘Manchester Founders’. Whether you’re looking for advice or potential collaborations, these events can offer a supportive community right in your local area.
Enterprise Nation
If you’re a new entrepreneur looking for ongoing support, Enterprise Nation is a network you should have on your radar. They host a variety of networking events across the UK, including their flagship event, the StartUp Show. But it doesn’t stop there. Enterprise Nation also provides business courses, mentoring, and access to a large community of like-minded business owners.
Their events attract a diverse mix of attendees, from start-up founders to seasoned entrepreneurs and investors. This makes it an ideal place to find inspiration, seek out partnerships, and learn from those who have been in your shoes before. The best part? Enterprise Nation’s events tend to be affordable, with many resources available for free.
YENA (Young Entrepreneurs Networking Association)
Are you a young entrepreneur looking for others who share your ambition? YENA is a network aimed specifically at young professionals who are either starting their own businesses or are aspiring to do so. They host monthly meetups in various cities around the UK, where you can connect with other young founders, share ideas, and even find potential collaborators.
YENA’s events are casual and highly inclusive, making them a great fit for anyone feeling slightly intimidated by the prospect of networking. It’s a perfect environment for young entrepreneurs looking to grow their networks in a friendly and supportive setting.
Tech Nation Rising Stars
If you’re launching a tech start-up, Tech Nation’s Rising Stars competition is one to watch. While it’s a competition rather than a traditional networking event, the exposure and connections it offers are invaluable. Rising Stars is a nationwide search for the most innovative early-stage tech start-ups in the UK. Even if you don’t win, participating in this competition gives you access to Tech Nation’s vast network of mentors, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs.
The competition culminates in a high-profile event where you can pitch your start-up in front of industry leaders. Whether you’re looking for investment or just want to raise your profile, Rising Stars is a brilliant way to get your business in front of key decision-makers in the tech world.
Pitch@Palace
Founded by the Duke of York, Pitch@Palace offers an extraordinary opportunity for entrepreneurs to pitch their businesses to a room full of influential people, including investors, business leaders, and even royalty. While the event is competitive, it’s also a once-in-a-lifetime chance to network with people who could transform the trajectory of your business.
Although only a select few get the chance to pitch, just attending the event offers incredible networking opportunities. The attendees are a mix of entrepreneurs, investors, and high-profile figures from various industries, making it a fantastic place to meet potential mentors and partners.
SME XPO
The SME XPO is an event dedicated entirely to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a focus on innovation and growth. If you’re in the process of scaling your business, this is a must-attend. Held in London, the SME XPO attracts thousands of visitors from across the UK, providing a brilliant platform for networking, learning, and sourcing new opportunities.
The event features a wide range of exhibitors, covering everything from digital marketing solutions to financial services. Alongside this, there are keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops aimed at helping businesses thrive in competitive markets. If you’re serious about growing your business and want to network with other ambitious entrepreneurs, the SME XPO is worth attending.
Final Thoughts
Networking events can be intimidating, but they’re also one of the most effective ways to grow your business and meet people who can help you along your journey. Whether you prefer the formality of a large expo or the casual atmosphere of a weekly meetup, there’s an event out there that’s perfect for you.
By attending these events, not only will you gain access to valuable advice and resources, but you’ll also build relationships that can open doors to new opportunities. It’s all about finding the right fit for your business and putting yourself out there.
After all, in the world of entrepreneurship, sometimes the best investment you can make is in your network. So why wait? Find an event, grab your business cards, and start making those connections that could define your entrepreneurial journey.
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