As a savvy business owner, you know how to get things done on your own. But you don't have to do it all alone. Sometimes a little help from friends can go a long way. This is where your small business network comes in.
Whether you're an up-and-coming HVAC contractor or looking to increase your roofing company's clientele, networking groups are sure to help. Here is an alphabetical list of 10 networking groups for entrepreneurs that can help you grow your business and reach new heights:Chief is a platform dedicated to female executive leaders, providing an exclusive member network and a list of vetted professional colleagues, from Fortune 50 companies to growing startups. Chief offers peer support through community groups and member meetings, masterclasses and exclusive access to the ideas of business leaders and cultural icons.
Business Networking International (BNI)
is a global networking organization with more than 10,000 chapters worldwide that specialize in referral businesses. If you're looking for references, BNI is the place to go.Most of these groups offer resources for business owners, including networking opportunities and the chance to hear from guest speakers.
The Entrepreneurs Organization (EO)
is a group of peer-to-peer networks for entrepreneurs. Founded in 1987, EO currently has more than 17,000 members in over 60 countries. The group provides relationships with mentors, online networks and local meeting opportunities, and has remained unchanged for nearly 30 years.TheFunded
is an online community that connects you with over 20,000 CEOs, founders and entrepreneurs who love to talk about fundraising and strategies for growing a startup. If you're looking to raise money for your venture, TheFunded might be the right fit.Opportunity
uses a matchmaking algorithm to link business professionals who want to collaborate on projects or just expand their network.Black Entrepreneur International Masterminds
organizes masterminds meetings for entrepreneurs on Zoom every week.They also have dynamic guest speakers, share advice on new technologies and provide opportunities to discuss business books.
ONLE
hosts Zoom-based meetings for business owners to connect as they would in person but online. Every month they have a group conversation where you can listen and learn or participate and share your ideas. At each meeting, you'll also have the chance to have an impromptu one-on-one chat with someone from the group.StartUp Nation
is a website that offers plenty of educational resources for entrepreneurs as well as networking opportunities. Take some time to review their community business forums to find answers to some of your most pressing questions.SCORE
, which stands for “Retired Executive Service Corps” is a great resource for many small businesses in the country.SCORE helps mentors and small business owners connect. If you're looking for a business mentor, SCORE is worth exploring. SCORE has a wide network of free volunteer mentors and offers workshops, webinars and information on how to start a business.
Small Business Administration (SBA)
, which makes it easier and more affordable for small businesses, is known for its free tutoring services.Rotary Club International is a global network of 1.2 million business professionals, community leaders and service-oriented individuals. Work with other business owners who are specifically interested in giving back to their local community. The Rotary Club is known for its community service and development initiatives and has a hyper-focused approach to community service and development.
Networking for Professionals
, founded in 2002 by professionals who wanted to merge in-person and online networking with face-to-face meetings.LinkedIn, which has been around since 2003 allows business professionals to create personal and company pages. A true social media site, members can interact with other members on a personal level by writing recommendations, approvals, and even sending InMails (LinkedIn's branded version of the email). LinkedIn allows you to present a professional online image of yourself and your company, complementing any website you already have.
Your Local Chamber of Commerce
.Joining a local, regional or national trade association not only helps your company make contacts with others in the same industry or trade but it also allows you to develop functional knowledge and learn from each other.
