IT’S NOT WHAT YOU KNOW…

The East Midlands has a rich business community, with plenty of opportunities to meet up with fellow entrepreneurs. Our own Real Entrepreneurs’ Club is an exclusive, invitation-only networking group for C-suite operatives. Networking events provide many opportunities, including knowledge sharing, support and community; all invaluable assets, in addition to the opportunity to generate leads.

Love Business have provided an online directory of networking events, at lovebusinessnetworking.co.uk. We’ve picked out a few of our favourites.

Kuku Connect

Run by co-founders Stephen Goddard and Philip Brooks-Stephenson, their regular Connect Receptions provide access to their network and create opportunities to forge quality relationships that lead to business. Having recently celebrated their sixth anniversary, KuKu Connect have received various awards recognising the quality of their events, including Outstanding Entrepreneur and Best Innovation at the Best Business Awards 2021. Joining KuKu includes an introductory meeting with the organisers, so they can get to know you and your business, and the option to bring a free guest visitor each month. In addition to their in-person events, they also offer digital meetings, making networking accessible to you wherever you are.

Chamber Connect

The East Midlands’ Chamber of Commerce hosts regular events – generally two a month (one online, one in-person) – for businesses looking to generate new and fruitful relationships. Predominantly aimed at SMEs, they make introductions with the aim of nurturing them into long-lasting relationships. Chamber Connect is also a chance to increase the visibility and profile of your business, reaching a wider audience for your product or service. Face-to-face meetings rotate around the region, meaning you don’t need to travel too far to reach your closest one.

The Circle Club

Covering Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, The Circle Club offers a variety of different events. Speed Networking Sessions are fast paced, online networking events that give members the opportunity to meet new faces or strengthen existing connections. Members’ Meetings are a relaxed, friendly workshop with either a guest speaker or team building exercise. Members’ Socials are a more informal gathering, allowing members time to socialise together. Circle Forums are large-scale networking events, open to non-members, and featuring a highprofile keynote speaker.

BUSINESS NETWORK INTERNATIONAL (BNI)

BNI is the largest networking organisation in the world, and the East Midlands’ region includes Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Rutland and Lincolnshire. Aside from their variety of networking events, including their popular breakfast meetings and the option to meet either online or in-person, membership also grants access to an archive or learning resources that can aid your personal development and the growth of your business.