Enterprise Nation local meet-ups: Connect with small business owners in your area

Being self-employed can be extremely exciting. But it can also, at times, be lonely. Combined with the pressures of starting and growing a business, self-employed people often miss the social interaction and sense of community in the workplace.

And although you may frequently seek advice from family and friends, it’s never quite the same as having the support and guidance of other like-minded business owners; those who are going through (or have already experienced) similar things to you.

Through our local meet-up campaign, Enterprise Nation is on a mission to cure those entrepreneurship blues. Taking place across the UK, meet-ups offer a relaxed, informal environment for small business owners to connect with fellow entrepreneurs in their area.  

These sessions provide a ready-made support network and an opportunity to collaborate, share ideas, discuss challenges and hold one another accountable. They can breathe fresh ideas into your business to accelerate success, re-motivate yourself and equip your business for the challenges that lie ahead. What’s more, they’re completely free to attend.  

Watch this webinar to learn how to get the most out of networking online:

Here’s why joining an Enterprise Nation local meet-up will benefit your business:

1. Networking opportunities 

The word networking fills many people with dread. But connecting and building a rapport with like-minded small business owners can be hugely beneficial for both your morale and your business.

It can lead to new customer leads, new supplier contacts, and potential partnerships and collaboration.

2. Fresh thinking and inspiration 

You may think it’s good to mix only with people from your industry, but sometimes, the best feedback and freshest ‘out-of-the-box’ ideas come from those who are in a different field with no knowledge or presuppositions about your specific area of business.

It also gives you a valuable opportunity to carry out some market research and learn more about your target audience in a live setting.

3. Feeling of belonging 

Local meet-ups offer opportunities to escape the bubble and connect with like-minded businesspeople, many of whom are dealing with the same challenges and are eager to share their experiences.

Discussing your challenges with others in a similar position allows the potential for collective problem-solving, and you will almost certainly feel less alone in your endeavours as a result of their mental and emotional support.

4. Learning opportunities 

In any business, there’s always more to learn, even for the most experienced among us. Whether it’s new knowledge about your product, business skills you need to develop or innovative marketing techniques, you’re bound to come away feeling more informed and better equipped to deal with the daily challenges of running your business.

5. Accountability 

There’s a strong chance that one of the reasons you started your business is because you were tired of other people holding you accountable. But all business owners have accountabilities, whether they realise it or not.

You’re accountable for hiring and managing your employees, building and maintaining a relationship with your customers and clients, managing your cash flow and making sure your taxes get filed each year. But that being said, it’s not always easy to remain motivated. A supportive peer group can help with that.

 
6. Instant advocates for your business  

Unlike other networking groups, local meet-ups aren’t a place to “sell” your business. But just by attending one of these sessions, you’re increasing your brand’s visibility.

And with “word of mouth” still arguably one of the most effective types of marketing, you’ll find that this ready-made support network of business owners will be likely to recommend you and your business to others as a result of being part of the same meet-up.

Small business local meet-ups with Enterprise Nation

Local meet-ups take place every month. Find your nearest and reserve your place