As a business owner, running a business can be a lonely activity. Local business networking is a great way to meet other local business owners and to develop relationships with them.
We try to attend a variety of different events across the Berkshire area during the month. If you are looking to network with other local businesses, then below is a list of our favourite Berkshire networking events. Hopefully, we may even see you at one of them.
Omni Business Development Network
Omni Business Development Network started out as a traditional networking group but recently has started to focus on education as well as networking. Each meeting has a business focus, education slot or business challenge.
There are two groups in Berkshire which meet on alternative Wednesday. The Bracknell groups meet at The Foxes Den, Binfield whilst the Reading group meets at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, home of Reading FC.
They also have nearby groups in Camberley, Farnborough, Guildford and Basingstoke.
Federation of Small Businesses
The Federation of Small Businesses is a membership organisation which provides support and advice to its members.
It also organises networking events both in person and online which are open to both members and non-members.
They have recently restarted their in-person networking meeting in Reading which is held on the 2nd Thursday of the month at Regus Green Park.
Royal Borough Of Windsor and Maidenhead Council
My Royal Borough is designed to support businesses based in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. It is a free service offered by RBWM Council.
They hold regular networking events which are held at locations across the borough. Past locations have included Ascot Racecourse, Windsor & Eton Brewery and MyWorkSpot Maidenhead.
These events are always well attended and have a wide mixture of local businesses.
Metro Bank Get Connected
These networking events are held as a collaboration between Metro Bank and Get Ahead. They are held at Metro Bank locations across the area.
There is no set format to these free meetings, simply turn up and start talking to other business owners.
The local one in Berkshire is held at Metro Bank, Broad Street, Reading. Other local ones are held at Metro Banks in Basingstoke and Guildford.
Gordon's School Business Breakfast
This networking event is the exception as it is just over the border in West End, Surrey. It is held in the Sports Hub Cafe at Gordon’s School.
The attendees are a mixture of business owners that have an association with the school and other local businesses.
It is held on the second Friday of every month and has a hearty breakfast included in the admission fee.
