85+ FREE business events you won’t want to miss in October 2025 Don’t get spooked by networking this Halloween. Check out these 89 free business events to connect with others and grow your business this month. Written by Emily Clark Published on 30 September 2025 Our experts We are a team of writers, experimenters and researchers providing you with the best advice with zero bias or partiality. Written and reviewed by: Emily Clark Writer Direct to your inbox Sign up to the Startups Weekly Newsletter Stay informed on the top business stories with Startups.co.uk’s weekly email newsletter SUBSCRIBE October is fast approaching. But for new business owners and entrepreneurs, the spooky season doesn’t necessarily come in the form of horror movies. Instead, these scares can come from networking, especially for those who haven’t done it before.But as scary as it can be at first, networking is also a great opportunity to build valuable relationships, find new opportunities for investment and business partnerships, and learn important insights from industry professionals.What’s more, there are plenty of free events, so you won’t get spooked by high ticket prices. We’ve listed 89 business events in the UK that you don’t want to miss out on this month. Jump to: Free business events in London this month Free business events in Newcastle this month Free business events in Leeds this month Free business events in Sheffield this month Free business events in Manchester this month Free business events in Liverpool this month Free business events in Birmingham this month Free business events in Nottingham this month Free business events in Cambridge this month Free business events in Oxford this month Free business events in Bristol this month Free business events in Cardiff this month Free business events in Edinburgh this month Free business events in Glasgow this month Free business events in London this monthBorn or Made in Brixton at 3Space International House (1st October at 8:30 am): An open, free event for founders and business owners in Brixton, from sole traders to non-profits to seasoned entrepreneurs. A great opportunity to share challenges, celebrate successes, and grow your network circle.Coffee Friday at Dialogue Cafe (3rd October at 10:00 am): A casual and relaxed meetup where local business owners can connect over coffee and pastries. Also, a good opportunity to meet potential business partners and to meet the Grow London Local team for advice and support.HUSTLE London Canary Wharf London Entrepreneur Networking Event at The George (7th October at 5:00 pm): A monthly meetup for local business owners looking for potential mentors, future team members, and investors. Also, an opportunity to share business ideas, get feedback on your minimum viable product (MVP), and even find partnership opportunities. Also being held at Liverpool Street on the 14th and Soho on the 21st.Richmond Business Networking at Slug & Lettuce (7th October at 6:00 pm): A friendly and informal gathering where entrepreneurs can connect with fellow founders, introduce their business, and get free advice — all while enjoying a drink in a relaxed setting.Startup Events London – Networking, Investor Relations, Fireside Chat at Workspace ® | Eventspace at Salisbury House (7th October at 6:30 pm): Promising an “epic evening” of networking and investor connections, Startup Networks’ free event is a great chance for new businesses looking to grow their circle and find investment opportunities. It includes a panel discussion on leadership and digital transformation.NatWest Accelerator Female Founder Networking at NatWest Moorgate (8th October at 10:00 am): A relaxed networking meetup for female founders to share ideas and experiences, plus build meaningful connections with other business owners and professionals. Tea and coffee are provided.Future in Focus: Women in Tech at The Boutique Workplace Company – Tagwright House (8th October at 5:00 pm): Designed for female entrepreneurs in the tech space, this free event offers the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals and senior professionals for advice and guidance. Drinks and canapes are provided.eCom Collab Club at ODEON Luxe West End (8th October at 8:00 pm): An event specifically for ecommerce businesses to connect with industry professionals and find partnership opportunities. It includes a panel discussion on international expansion and how to scale your business in 2026.Networking Event: Cybersecurity, FinTech, B2B & Finance at Drake & Morgan’s at King’s Cross (18th October at 10:00 am): Bringing together the brightest minds in cybersecurity, fintech, B2B, and finance, this free event offers exclusive networking sessions with industry experts, meet and greet sessions with investors, and insightful discussions on emerging technologies.Tech Startup Networking London – Series A/Venture Capital Networking Event at Archer Street Soho (21st October at 4:00 pm): Designed specifically for tech startups, this free event offers the chance to network with potential partners and angel investors. For over 25s only, and a smart dress code is required. Free business events in Newcastle this monthPLATFORM at Crowne Plaza Newcastle (3rd October at 9:00 am): A place where entrepreneurs can learn about opportunities for starting a business or growing it further, while also connecting with fellow founders, funders, investors, and potential partners. It’s also being held on the 31st.Motivation Monday: Coffee, Connection & Kickstart at The Lumen, Floor 4 (6th October at 9:30 am): A weekly event made for local entrepreneurs to kick off their week with fresh motivation. Starts with some relaxed networking over coffee or tea, before moving on to a goal-setting session to set your focus for the week. After the event is over, you’re free to use the venue’s free coworking space until 5 pm.NatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at The Lumen, Floor 4 (7th October at 9:30 am): An event where local business owners and entrepreneurs can connect with others over complimentary Nespresso coffee. Includes group activities for brainstorming, sharing ideas, and celebrating successes.SHINE Meeting at Newcastle University Business School (9th October at 12:00 pm): A place where entrepreneurs and business owners can share ideas, discuss challenges and emerging topics, and connect with like-minded individuals.Founder’s Friday at The Lumen, Floor 4 (10th October at 9:30 am): A free event held every second Friday of the month, bringing local founders and entrepreneurs together to connect, collaborate, and learn from experts in different industries. Also, it has a “Founder Spotlight” session where you can hear from fellow businesses on their journey, including challenges and wins.HUSTLE Newcastle Entrepreneur Networking Event at All Bar One (30th October at 5:00 pm): Much like its London counterpart, this event offers a laid-back space where entrepreneurs can expand their circle with meaningful connections, including mentors, advisors, and business partners. Free business events in Leeds this monthWelcome Wednesdays: Hub Tour and Networking at 2 Whitehall Quay, 3rd Floor (1st October at 10:00 am): An opportunity to meet the local NatWest Accelerator team for business support, as well as network and connect with a community of entrepreneurs.Accelerator Morning Mixer at 2 Whitehall Quay, 3rd Floor (7th October at 9:30 am): Advertising itself as “more than just coffee and catch-up”, this free event is a great opportunity to recharge and connect with fellow founders and business leaders. It includes group activities for brainstorming, sharing ideas, and celebrating successes. Free Nespresso coffee is provided.Connect & Collaborate X Entrepreneur Social Network Leeds at Clockwise Leeds (7th October at 10:00 am): A laid-back morning of networking with fellow entrepreneurs, where you can explore new ways to collaborate. Includes a day pass to Clockwise Leeds’ coworking space.Hump Networking – Brand New Business Networking at LeedsBID (8th October at 10:00 am): An engaging networking event where you can connect with fellow entrepreneurs and grow your business circle. Guest speaker to be confirmed.Leeds Mind Business Connections at Weetwood Hall Estate (9th October at 10:00 am): A free quarterly networking event. Ahead of World Mental Health Day, the theme for this event is all about how businesses can have supportive conversations about mental health in the workplace. Free refreshments are provided.Get Connected | Leeds at Clockwise Leeds (16th October at 10:00 am): A free and open B2B networking event for businesses based in Leeds and surrounding areas. There’s no fixed schedule or elevator pitches — just simple networking in a relaxed setting.SME Leaders Forum October 2025 at Nexus – University of Leeds (21st October at 3:00 pm): Hosted by Leeds Business University School, this free event invites local businesses and industry experts to exchange ideas and strategies for success. Includes a talk from David Clarke OBE, who will share his experiences of running a business with a disability.Breakfast Networking – October at 3 Sheat St (28th October at 8:30 am): Held on the last Tuesday of every month, this free event brings together local businesses and professionals to connect in a relaxed environment. Includes talk from Philippa Bradley on the virtual assistant (VA) industry. Free coffee, pastries, and fruit juice are provided.Entrepreneur Social Networking at The Decanter (28th October at 5:00 pm): This free event offers open networking in a casual and relaxed environment, allowing entrepreneurs to make meaningful connections with mentors, future employees, advisers, and industry experts.Coworking or…DIE?? – Coworking in Leeds at Wizu Workspace (30th October at 9:00 am): Despite the sinister name, this isn’t some cheap horror movie. Instead, it’s an event packed with networking opportunities, guest speakers, and plenty of chances to get your work done at Wizu’s coworking space. Free business events in Sheffield this monthSheffield Young Professionals at Over The Yardarm Bar (9th October at 5:30 pm): A space where young Sheffield-based entrepreneurs can build meaningful relationships through open and chilled networking.The Marketing Meetup IRL: Sheffield at Fitzalan Square (9th October at 6:00 pm): A friendly, no-pressure event where marketing professionals can get together to connect with fellow peers and gain fresh insights from a panel of guest speakers.Business Networking – Sheffield Business Peer to Peer Forum at datamills (14th October at 10:00 am): A “shared” networking event, giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to meet new connections and get peer-to-peer support from like-minded professionals. You’re also given a two-minute slot to introduce yourself, what makes your product/service beneficial, and a challenge or a win. The Butterfly Effect Business Club – Female Netwalking Event at Rother Valley Country Park (17th October at 9:30 am): Promoting “fun and empowering” netwalking, this free event by The Butterfly Effect Business Club is all about connecting local women-led businesses to share business ideas, while enjoying a leisurely walk at the beautiful Rother Valley Country Park.Startup Social: Sheffield at Hideaway (30th October at 6:00 pm): A relaxed monthly meetup for founders, business owners, and entrepreneurs to share projects, swap stories, and even find collaboration opportunities. Free business events in Manchester this monthMind Body Business FREE Networking Event at Wilde Aparthotels (2nd October at 10:30 am): A free event that offers networking opportunities, as well as tips for business owners in mindfulness to improve motivation and general wellbeing. Tea, coffee, and caffeine-free drinks are provided.Start Up Huddle Manchester at BIPC Seminar Studio, 2nd Floor (2nd October at 5:00 pm): With a mission to strengthen the small business scene in Manchester, Start Up Huddle allows you to network openly and explore free resources available from BIPC Manchester. Refreshments are provided.Business Networking Through Golf at Sale Golf Club (3rd October at 8:30 am): Putting networking and golf together, attendees can enjoy a round while meeting like-minded individuals. Complimentary bacon sandwiches (or dietary alternatives) and coffee are provided. Held weekly.Accelerator Morning Mixer at NatWest Accelerator Manchester Hub (8th October at 9:30 am): A place for entrepreneurs to network with like-minded individuals. Includes group activities for brainstorming, sharing ideas, and celebrating successes. Free Nespresso coffee is included.FUEL Manchester 2025 at No. 1 Circle Square (9th October at 9:00 am): Boasting an “innovative event created to fuel startup business growth”, FUEL Manchester starts with a breakfast panel where entrepreneurs and experts will share advice on business growth. This is followed by an exclusive masterclass where a select group of 25+ businesses will get access to some of the most respected names in business.Techcelerate Coffees Manchester at DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester (16th October at 10:00 am): An informal networking event for tech founders to collaborate with other entrepreneurs, investors, and senior managers of tech companies.Pitch Manchester: Showcase Your Business & Network with Like Minded People at Hotel Motel One Manchester (20th October at 1:00 pm): Offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their business in front of an audience, while networking with fellow business owners and founders.Tech Startup Networking Manchester – Series A/Venture Capital Networking Event at BLVD Manchester (30th October at 5:00 pm): Designed for tech startups, this free event offers the chance to network with potential clients, partners, and investors. For over 25s only, with a smart dress code required.HUSTLE Manchester Entrepreneur Networking Event at BLVD Manchester (30th October at 6:00 pm): A great opportunity to network with important people who can help grow your business, whether that’s mentors, future employees, or advisors. For over 25s only, with a smart dress code. Free business events in Liverpool this monthFounder Funding Groups – Round Table at Aveue HQ (1st October at 12:00 pm): A practical, founder-focused session on finding the right investors for early-stage and growing businesses. Lunchtime buffet included.real5 Liverpool South Networking Lunch at Blackburne Arms Allerton Road (3rd October at 12:00 pm): A place to join fellow business owners and entrepreneurs for a laid-back networking lunch. Offers the chance to connect, share ideas, and grow your network in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.BOLD B2B Business Breakfast at Nova Scotia (7th October at 9:00 am): An event where you can fuel up on coffee and pastries, while networking with others and hearing inspiring talks from guest speakers.Relaxed Business Networking In Person at Calisa Coffee Shop (7th October at 6:00 pm): This weekly event is exactly what it says on the tin. Expect a relaxed evening of open networking, with the chance to meet potential collaborators and swap ideas. Tea and coffee will be available.HUSTLE Liverpool Entrepreneur Networking at Pier Eight Restaurant & Bar (28th October at 5:00 pm): As with all HUSTLE networking events, you can expect an easygoing and welcoming experience while finding your next collaboration opportunity, whether it’s through mentoring or business partners.October Connect and Collaborate at The Municipal Hotel and Spa (29th October at 10:00 am): An energising networking session built around real connections. Offers a friendly, welcoming space where you can meet new people, find collaboration opportunities, and grow your network. Free business events in Birmingham this monthBrummies Networking – Free Business Networking at Grosvenor Casino Broad St (14th October at 11:00 am): A relaxed networking meetup focused on real conversations, not sales pitches. Expect genuine connections over a cup of tea or coffee.Birmingham Business Show at Alexander Stadium (16th October at 10:00 am): As well as 1-2-1 networking opportunities, this free event offers an exhibit of around 60 companies, plus the chance to gain valuable insights from a programme of eight seminars.HUSTLE Birmingham Entrepreneur Networking Event at O Bar (23rd October at 6:00 pm): A great opportunity to expand your network and explore collaboration opportunities with people who can help grow your business. For over 25s only, with a smart dress code. Free business events in Nottingham this monthNetworking at The Botanist (3rd October at 8:00 am): A chance to expand your network, share ideas, and build new relationships over a cup of coffee. Hosted by Rushcliffe Business Partnership events, this event attracts a mix of professionals, including designers, social media experts, accountants, marketers, HR specialists, and more. There is also a further event at The Ruddington Arms on the 17th.The ScreenPop Entrepreneurs’ Expo 2025 at The Nottingham Belfry Hotel (6th October at 10:00 am): Whether you’re new to the business scene or already a seasoned entrepreneur, the ScreenPop Entrepreneurs’ Expo is the place to be to network with others, find new customers, and source new suppliers. Includes seminars, workshops, and 40+ exhibitor stands.Nottingham Business Networking: KuKu Connect & Festive Pho Evening at Pho Nottingham (7th October at 6:00 pm): Celebrating its 9th birthday, KuKu Connect is offering a unique networking event. With no pitches or presentations, attendees are free to network with like-minded individuals — all while getting a taste of Pho’s seasonal menu tasters, limited-edition Christmas cocktails, and a make-your-own summer rolls experience.Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at Mammoth (7th October at 6:00 pm): If you’re interested in becoming more sustainable in your business, then this free event is the perfect opportunity to learn how to be more environmentally responsible, plus network with others. No business pitches or panels included.Nottingham Networking Brunch at Sherwood Manor (8th October at 10:00 am): An energising morning of networking and connection-building. Starts with 40-second pitches to spotlight your products/services, followed by an insightful presentation, before finishing with 10-minute 1-2-1 networking with business owners.Tech Business Meetup – Drinks and Networking at Portello Lounge (15th October at 6:00 pm): Hosted by the Nottingham Tech Network, this event is designed for tech professionals to build their network and connect with others over a drink or two. Free business events in Cambridge this monthCambridge Pitch & Mix at The Mill Mediterranean Coffee Spot (2nd October at 8:45 am): Held every Tuesday, this free event kicks off with open networking, before moving on to 20-second introductions and then a discussion around topics of marketing, sales, and business development. Finishes off with more networking, discussion groups, and follow-up conversations.Mindstone Cambridge October AI Meetup at The Bradfield Centre (2nd October at 6:00 pm): An event for AI startups or businesses interested in learning about how to integrate AI technology into their operations. A good opportunity to learn about the latest AI projects and learn from the brightest minds in the field.Silicon Drinkabout Cambridge at Devonshire Arms (31st October at 7:00 pm): Run by an inclusive community for the tech network in Cambridge, the Silicon Drinkabout is held every last Friday of the month, where attendees can network with others in a chilled-out space. Free business events in Oxford this monthOxford Business Expo 2025 at Leonardo Royal Hotel (1st October at 10:00 am): Known as Oxford’s largest business show, this event is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs and business owners to network with 300-400 attendees, plus explore learning opportunities from free seminars and workshops.OxCyber Social Event at The Marsh Harrier (9th October at 5:30 pm): Offering an “evening of networking, real conversations, and cyber community spirit”, this free event is ideal for cybersecurity enthusiasts or businesses interested in learning more about cybersecurity. No agenda or fixed schedule included.October – Women in Tech at the Business and Intellectual Property Centre Oxfordshire (BIPC) (14th October at 6:00 pm): A dynamic business event celebrating female founders and women-led businesses in the tech space. Includes guest speakers, panels, workshops, and networking opportunities.Oxford Coffee Club at The Fishes (17th October at 9:30 am): A networking coffee morning for agency businesses to share wins, challenges, and discuss everything business — from new client relationships to operations, growth, and maintaining a good work-life balance. Free business events in Bristol this monthRebel Run Club at Temple Studios (1st October at 6:00 pm): A refreshing way for founders, entrepreneurs, and business owners to connect, network and recharge at the same time. Held every two weeks.BrisBES: Friday Start-Up Club at Temple Studios (3rd October at 9:30 am): A space for early-stage businesses and entrepreneurs to network casually over tea, coffee, and pastries. Also includes on-hand support from business advisors and a “tip of the week” to spark conversation and action.Networking for founders, creators, freelancers + rebels at The Square Club (6th October at 6:00 pm): A monthly meetup for young entrepreneurs to connect, share experiences, and pick up practical advice on navigating the ups and downs of running a business.NatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at NatWest Accelerator (7th October at 10:00 am): Like other Accelerator Morning Mixer events, expect an energising morning where you can recharge and network with fellow entrepreneurs. Includes group activities for brainstorming, sharing ideas, and celebrating successes, plus complimentary Nespresso coffee.Entrepreneurs Local Circle Meeting at The Inn at Yanleigh (14th October at 6:30 pm): A monthly meetup for founders and entrepreneurs to connect, share experiences, and pick up actionable marketing tips to put to work right away.Bristol Coffee Morning at InSynch (16th October at 10:00 am): A relaxed coffee morning for business owners to get together, introduce their business, share challenges, and learn useful tips and resources to take away.Meet up in the Ye Shakespeare Pub (23rd October at 12:00 pm): A vibrant and energising space hosted by Rhoda Brain and Duncan Russell of Miint Marketing, offering a fun lunchtime networking event to help local businesses connect and build genuine relationships. Free business events in Cardiff this monthCARDIFF: Business and Breakfast Networking at Grange Pavilion (2nd October at 10:00 am): A collaborative meetup for entrepreneurs and business owners to share ideas and experiences. Includes guest speakers in marketing, finance, sales, and growth. Complimentary tea, coffee, and pastries are provided.In Person Business Networking at The Maltings (7th October at 9:30 am): This networking event brings together business owners from all stages and backgrounds. Whether you’re starting your first venture or running an established business, it’s a good chance to meet a diverse community and expand your network.Meet and Mingle: Community through Business at Cardiff Metropolitan University (7th October at 6:00 pm): With the theme of “community through business”, this free event includes talks from seasoned entrepreneurs on “behind the scenes” stories, advice on how to tackle challenges, and networking opportunities.HUM4NS Talks Cardiff at voco St David’s (20th October at 7:00 pm): As well as networking opportunities, this free event also includes a panel of guest speakers who will share their personal stories in business, including the challenges they’ve faced and how they’ve overcome them.CBL Cardiff Breakfast Meeting at The Coach & Horses Hotel & Restaurant (24th October at 7:30 am): A monthly breakfast gathering for Christian business leaders to connect, exchange insights, and talk openly about the challenges and opportunities for modern business. Complimentary tea and coffee are provided.DIVERGE: October 2025 at Tramshed Tech (28th October at 10:00 am): Made specifically for Neurodivergent founders, this monthly gathering is ideal for those looking to network and cowork in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Free business events in Edinburgh this monthConnectED, Edinburgh Business Networking at Hotel Indigo (7th October at 8:30 am): A weekly networking event for founders and business owners to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, SMEs, consultants, agency owners, charities, professionals, and corporate executives.Royal Bank Accelerator Morning Mixer at RBS Accelerator Hub (7th October at 9:30 am): A great chance for entrepreneurs to network and recharge over complimentary Nespresso coffee. Also includes founder-focused group activities for brainstorming, swapping ideas, and sharing wins.Accelerator Social at RBS Accelerator Hub (7th October at 3.30 pm): An informal social event for founders and entrepreneurs to share stories, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships. No agenda or structured schedule.Scottish National Network – Business Networking in the City at Browns Edinburgh (8th October at 10:00 am): Calling itself “speed networking with a twist”, this event uses a coloured card system to help attendees connect with the relevant people, allowing you to make more valuable connections in less time.She Scales at RBS Accelerator Hub (16th October at 9:30 am): A coworking and networking meetup created for female founders, offering a supportive space to build connections, collaborate, share ideas, and receive valuable feedback.The Business Connection Edinburgh breakfast at Loudons Fountainbridge (28th October at 8:00 am): A monthly free breakfast event hosted by The Business Connection. Offers a morning of connection, engaging in meaningful conversations, and finding new opportunities.The Collaboration Club – Monthly Networking for Business Owners at Hotel Indigo (29th October at 8:00 pm): The clue is in the name. Offers a space for women founders to engage in worthwhile conversations, grow their network, and find collaboration opportunities.Founder Friday Coworking at Lister Place (31st October at 9:00 am): A coworking day specifically for technical founders looking to scale their businesses, with the chance to connect with others and exchange ideas. Held every last Friday of the month. Free business events in Glasgow this monthBusiness Networking in Glasgow at Nuffield Health Glasgow Central Fitness & Wellbeing Gym (1st October at 6:30 am): A high-energy morning designed to help entrepreneurs connect, share goals, and showcase their business with a 10-minute spotlight. Complimentary breakfast is included.Business Networking at Hillhead Sports Club (2nd October at 8:00 am): A weekly meetup for entrepreneurs to connect with a like-minded community, share challenges, gain new insights, and receive the support they need to keep their businesses moving forward.Networking for Family Focussed Businesses at Wish Upon A Star Kingdom (3rd October at 10:30 am): An inclusive event for parent business owners, offering an open and supportive space to brainstorm and explore partnership opportunities.Scottish National Network – Business Networking in the City at Browns Glasgow (7th October at 10:00 am): Like its Edinburgh counterpart, this event helps entrepreneurs find and connect with relevant people through its coloured card system, letting them make more valuable connections quicker.8 Business Networking Coffee Morning OCT at The Alchemist Glasgow (15th October at 9:30 am): This event combines relaxed, go-at-your-own-pace networking with focused round-table discussions. Ends with a fun prize draw to end the morning on a high.She Scales at Accelerator Hub,4th Floor (29th October at 10:00 am): Made for female founders and women-led businesses, this free event is ideal for those looking to expand their circle, share ideas, and find potential collaborators. Share this post facebook twitter linkedin Tags News and Features Written by: Emily Clark Writer Having worked in a startup environment first-hand as a Content Manager, Emily specialises in content around organisational culture - helping SMEs build strong, people-first workplaces that stay true to their core values. She also holds an MSc in Digital Marketing and Analytics, giving her the knowledge and skills to create a diverse range of creative and technical content. Aside from her expertise in company culture, her news articles breaks down the big issues in the small business world, making sure our SME audience stays informed and ready for whatever’s next. With a genuine passion for helping small businesses grow, Emily is all about making complex topics accessible and creating content that can help make a difference.