Growing a business requires many pieces to come together, and connecting with the right people is a huge part of the puzzle. Building solid relationships can open new doors and fast-track growth in ways owners might not have imagined. It’s no secret that brands that surround themselves with the right crowd will find more opportunities popping up where they least expect them.
Many people understand that networking is important, but where do they start? That’s the tricky part. Plus, many have the wrong idea about what networking involves. Luckily, networking doesn’t have to be intimidating or boring! There are many effective and enjoyable ways to connect with other business owners.
That’s where exclusive network groups come in, and the right one can be a game-changer. Brands will connect with like-minded individuals and gain fresh insights. Here are seven networking groups to find better partnerships and grow your business in 2025.
Table of Contents
What are business networks?
7 exclusive business networks to consider
4 tips to help businesses network effectively
Wrapping up
What are business networks?
Business networks focus on bringing professionals together, creating opportunities to build relationships that can move the needle for them. Whether owners want to grow, kickstart a new partnership, or find potential clients, networking opens those doors.
It moves beyond meeting partners, too. Some networks even create opportunities for businesses to negotiate with competitors and gain more valuable industry insights for months or years. Plus, owners should swap business contacts with other attendees if they attend a networking event.
It’s a great way to stay connected after the event. Companies often organize these gatherings to share knowledge, explore new management techniques, and brainstorm fresh business ideas. Networking can spark big things.
7 exclusive business networks to consider
1. Local chamber of commerce
A chamber of commerce is the biggest resource for a local business community. When owners join, they become part of a group that advocates for businesses in their area, helping to amplify their needs and interests.
It’s a fantastic way to connect with business professionals across various industries. Chambers often offer valuable resources, such as networking events, workshops, and guest speaker sessions, to help small business growth.
Check out the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Directory to find the matching local chapter. Keep in mind, though, that these groups often have a membership fee, either monthly or yearly, so be sure to budget for that, too.
2. Chief
Chief is a dynamic networking group dedicated to empowering women in business. Whether they’re Fortune 500 CEOs or leading successful startups, Chief connects businesswomen with a curated community of accomplished professionals. When they join, the network will match them with a peer group guided by an experienced executive coach.
That way, business women will never navigate their careers alone. They will also get access to exclusive workshops, member events, and smaller community groups to help them grow and connect. Click here to apply to become a member and see how Chief can elevate the business career.
3. Business Networking International (BNI)
Business Networking International (BNI) is a global powerhouse in networking, with over 10,000 chapters. Its main goal is to help businesses grow through referrals. This exclusive network is a great way to start forming valuable connections with like-minded professionals, opening doors to new opportunities through referral marketing. It’s especially great for service-based businesses that thrive on word-of-mouth recommendations.
4. LinkedIn Groups
LinkedIn business groups might be the perfect place to start if business owners are after some online networking. They’re fantastic for expanding their network and making meaningful professional connections. However, businesses must find the right groups—thankfully, they can use the search bar or browse through the LinkedIn Groups Directory.
Experts recommend starting this networking journey by joining one or two groups in the business field. Owners should also look for ways to get involved in the conversation. LinkedIn groups are easy to connect with, share insights, and grow a professional presence.
5. SCORE
If business owners are looking for mentors, SCORE is a fantastic resource to check out. It has a huge network of volunteer mentors offering free guidance, and it’s a great place to find support. They also provide a wealth of valuable resources, such as workshops, webinars, and helpful information, for anyone starting or growing a business.
With backing from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), business owners can rest assured they’re in good hands. Check out what SCORE offers—it could be just the support they need.
6. The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE)
The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) is a fantastic organization for small business owners and entrepreneurs. It offers a wealth of educational resources that are usually only available at larger companies. Joining this network will give owners valuable insights into business law, healthcare, and tax management. Even businesses looking for funding can find some small business grants and scholarships on the NASE.
7. Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO)
Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is a global peer-to-peer network that brings together business leaders. Founded in 1987, EO has grown to over 17,000 members in 60+ countries. EO helps its members grow through mentoring, online communities, and local meetups.
There are two ways to join: either through a local chapter, which holds monthly events, or a bridge chapter, which meets quarterly. Bridge chapters help members build regional connections and participate in interest-based discussions.
4 tips to help businesses network effectively
Networking can boost your business, but it’s most effective when you have a plan. Here are a couple of practical tips to help you get the most out of connecting with other business owners:
1. Go digital first
The easiest way to start networking is online. Whether business owners join LinkedIn groups or participate in Twitter discussions, it’s a no-cost, simple way to start positioning themselves as an authority in their niche.
2. Meet people in real life
Digital is great, but nothing beats actual face-to-face conversations. Attending industry events, like conferences or trade shows, really ups the game when building lasting connections. Businesses should walk in ready to introduce themselves and build relationships that last longer than just a business card exchange.
3. Stay connected
After meeting someone at a business gathering, always grab their contact details. Whether it’s their email or social media (LinkedIn) profile, having this info on hand will simplify reaching out and staying in touch later.
4. Be intentional
Attending every event or engaging with everyone is impossible, so it’s essential to prioritize quality over quantity. Trying to do too much will water down the marketing efforts. Instead, businesses should maximize their impact by carefully selecting which network opportunities to pursue.
Wrapping up
In today’s world, where collaboration among companies is rising, a business’s success and growth heavily depend on strong relationships. Many organizations lean on different networks to foster clear and efficient communication with potential partners—and small businesses can do the same, too. This article highlights seven types of exclusive business networks that offer valuable insights and help make informed decisions when teaming up with other businesses.
