There’s a whole host of essential networking events to tap into in Leeds and the surrounding areas. Here’s our regularly updated pick of them…
One of the great things about the business community in Yorkshire is how supportive it is. There’s all manner of events and support groups out there for a huge range of industries, and networking events play a major role in linking people up together.
This list covers regular get-togethers in pubs, clubs, hotels and conference venues, for everyone from tech experts to writers, property investors to agency staff. Dip in and out – it’s the perfect way to meet new people, swap ideas, collaborate and get your network on.
City Networking. It doesn’t matter what industry you’re in, you’re welcome at the City Networking event. It has been held regularly at the Gino D’Acampo restaurant in Leeds’ Marriott Hotel, but also at Chaophraya. It doesn’t matter if you’re enjoying an Italian buffet lunch or Thai treats, this is a great way to forge new connections. City Networking holds events regularly at Leeds locations.
First Thursday York. As the name suggests, this networking event is held on the first Thursday of every month, at Impossible York, the tearooms and ‘wonderbar’ in St. Helen’s Square. It’s free to attend and the onus is very much on mingling – no formality, no pitches, just grab yourself a drink and meet interesting people for a couple of hours. First Thursday York takes place on the the first Thursday of every month.
Netwalking. Networking and bounteous Yorkshire countryside? Yes, it’s a thing. Netwalking does things a little differently, starting with a stroll through the picturesque grounds of Bolton Abbey. Make some contacts as you stomp through the splendour, then finish off your networking with a drink in The Devonshire Arms. Netwalking takes place regularly throughout the year.
FSB Networking. This event, run by the Federation of Small Businesses, is open to both members and non-members and prides itself on being lively and friendly. It’s aimed at business owners and provides a forum for discussing issues and opportunities with like-minded entrepreneurs. FSB Networking Events are held regularly in Leeds, Harrogate and Bradford.
Property Deal Network. The Property Deal Network is a nationwide group that holds events in Leeds targeting property investors and entrepreneurs. It’s the perfect talking shop to discuss deals, finance and the ups and downs of the property market. Recent events have been held at The Decanter bar in Leeds, so it’s very relaxed and they promise no upselling. Property Deal Network meet every month at The Decanter, Leeds.
Connect Yorkshire Speed Networking. Connect Yorkshire is a not-for-profit group that brings together business owners and entrepreneurs and offers mentoring, training and, of course, networking. Members get access to a wide range of events, but non-members can pay to join their Speed Networking event which follows a 1-2-1 format where you’ll get time with every attendee. Connect Yorkshire Speed Networking Events take place twice yearly.
Copywriters Unite. Copywriters Unite is a global concern launched by Vikki Ross, with regular events connecting scribes all over the world. The Leeds events come in two flavours – a daytime get together hosted by Cat Arundel, and an evening one in the company of Penny Brazier. You might meet your next collaborator, mentor or just a new friend who has a way with words. Copywriters Unite meet every two to three months at bars in Leeds.
The Commerce Club. We’re not going to judge if you decide to sample some of the vodka range at Commerce Club’s monthly get-together in York’s Coney Street branch of Revolution. They attract people from IT, media, law, marketing and financial sectors, and it’s completely free to attend. No pitches or speeches – just pure networking. The Commerce Club takes place monthly at Revolution, York.
We are in Business. One of the struggles facing business owners is the lack of peer support. You can make those important connections with the face-to-face events held regularly by We are in Business. It’s £12 to get in – refreshments are provided – and there are no pitches or pressure, just real relationships. We are in Business events take place every four weeks at 2-Work Leeds and at other venues across Yorkshire.
Credit: York Creatives
York Creatives. It does what it says on the tin. This monthly meeting is aimed at creatives across York who want to meet their peers, spark new relationships and more in an informal environment. Tickets are less than a fiver, and you can grab drinks and street food as you meet fellow creatives of all levels. York Creatives Monthly Social is held on the first Friday of every month at SPARK: YORK.
The New Monday. Are you a creative wanting to share some ideas and meet new people? Get yourself to Department at Leeds Dock. From designers to producers, directors to composers, all are welcome for coffee and croissants at a breakfast event that combines networking with a guest speaker and a set pitching slot if you want one. The New Monday is held on the first Tuesday of each month at Department, Leeds.
Yorkshire Mafia. The impressive Yorkshire Mafia have been delivering B2B events, conferences and more for years across the county, in the process connecting countless people. Events vary, but expect something like the recent collaboration with Silicon Yorkshire at Chaophraya in Leeds. First-time networker? They’ve got a handy guide to steer you right. Yorkshire Mafia events take place regularly throughout the year at various venues.
Credit: Nexus
Nexus Connect. Nexus in Leeds plays host to a number of business events, from leaders forums to fintech meet-ups and workshops. Nexus Connect is its networking event, aimed at providing a space for those in the tech industry to meet up and explore ideas and collaboration. There’ll often be a panel discussion, before you get to work the room. Nexus Connect takes place regularly at Nexus.
The Business Network. Spanning North and West Yorkshire, The Business Network is a lunchtime networking group with events in Leeds, Wakefield and York. For £30 you get an arrival drink, two-course lunch and a seat at a table with a good mix of industries. It’s aimed at senior staff, directors and decision makers. The Business Network events take place regularly at a variety of venues.
Have we missed a outstanding networking event our readers should know about? Drop us a line and let us know.
Cover image credit: York Creatives.
