Business networking

There are many opportunities for business networking in Reading. Whether you're employed by a company or run your own business, just starting out, or been in the field for years - there is an opportunity for you in Reading. Reading's range of business networks range from free and open business communities to private members-only networks. Here are some of the opportunities currently in Reading:

• Reading Business Network
  The Reading Business Network (RBN) is a group of ambitious business people who came together with REDA (Reading's Economy & Destination Agency) during the COVID-19 lockdown periods of 2020, to work out how to create a framework for local “neighbourhood” economies and business recovery, shaped through a town-wide business network and local business communities. The Network meets monthly – usually online at a breakfast meeting on the last Thursday of the month, and in person at evening events 4 times a year. Membership is free for anyone interested in the group’s commitment to driving local economic growth, local purchasing and providing a voice for small business in the greater Reading area.
• Reading Tourism Network
  Aimed at Reading's leisure and hospitality businesses, the Reading Tourism Network is run by REDA to help support and promote Reading as a visitor destination, as well as providing a valuable forum for like-minded businesses to share best practice and drive communications.
• First Friday Club
  Meeting monthly, First Friday Club is a free membership club open to all businesses in Reading. The group meets on the afternoon of the “First Friday” of the month, providing rotating venues and guest speakers as well as networking. 
• Reading Property Social 
  UK Prop Social is a place for the property community to meet and discuss key issues, engage in debate and network with fellow professionals working across the Thames Valley. The group meets occasionally (usually lunchtimes) at venues in greater Reading.
• Creative Locale
  Caversham-based arts organisation supporting local creative businesses through events, activities and an online sales platform, especially for those aspiring to develop their art into commercial success. 
• BNI
  BNI Reading Central is a platinum standard, flagship chapter for the Berkshire and Wiltshire region of the international BNI network. This membership organisation has over 40 members who share £3 million of business around the room every year.  If you are looking to grow your business, expand your network and develop referral partners, BNI could be a good choice. There are also further BNI groups across Reading.