80+ FREE business events to grow your network in December 2025 Finish the year on a high this December by exploring 84 free business events to network, learn and make meaningful connections this festive season. Written by Emily Clark Published on 28 November 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 The festive season can feel chaotic. Among the endless shopping, Christmas parties, and family dinners, networking might be the last thing on your mind.However, December is still an effective time of the year to build and expand your business circle. The season naturally pulls people together, so it’s easier to start conversations, meet new people, and even reconnect with old contacts.Another big advantage is that most events are a lot less formal, especially during the holidays. Many don’t have rigid agendas, awkward name badges, or pressure to deliver a perfect elevator pitch.With that, we’ve rounded up 84 of the best free business events across the UK to keep on your radar for December. Jump to your closest city: 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 monthBusiness Support Projects Launch at London Borough of Tower Hamlets, Town Hall (1st December at 10:30am): the Tower Hamlets Business Growth team is holding a free event for local entrepreneurs. Includes free refreshments and a workshop on preparing your startup for investment.NatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at 250 Bishopsgate (2nd December at 9:30am): alongside free Nespresso coffee, this event gives you the chance to meet fellow founders and business leaders while taking part in founder-focused activities designed to get you thinking — whether that’s a Walk & Talk, Founder Roulette, or a Breakfast & Brainstorm session.Celebration of Small Business Saturday at West Wickham Library, Bromley (2nd December at 10:30am): bringing networking and Christmas markets together, Start Up Bromley is offering the opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect with each other, plus promote your products and services in a festive marketplace. 20/20 Levels Pitch Night at MYO St Paul’s (3rd December at 5:45pm): a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges, plus network with like-minded individuals. A £2,500 prize is also up for grabs.Coffee & Conversation: Celebrating Small Businesses at Regus (4th December at 8:30am): a free event celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship in the Hillingdon area. As well as networking opportunities, a panel of local businesses will also come together to share real stories around starting a business, including wins, challenges, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.Coffee Friday at Caddi Club Wimbledon (5th December 10:00am): an informal and relaxed setting where Wimbledon-based entrepreneurs and businesses can meet up, connect and share ideas over a coffee.Festive Cheer Networking for Richmond & Wandsworth at Slug & Lettuce Richmond (9th December at 6:00pm): in collaboration with The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Patch, this free event is a chance for Richmond and Wandsworth-based businesses to meet and find potential business partners.Reignite the creative power of your people at the SCALE Hub W1 (9th December at 6:00pm): Dr Eugene Hughes, award-winning psychologist and founder of Artgym, shares how leaders can unlock creativity and revive that ‘kitchen-table’ energy as you grow. Pre-registration is essential.Harrow Ladies Who Latte at Cafeto (11th December at 10:00am): a casual coffee morning for local female entrepreneurs to grow their network, share their experiences, and build valuable relationships. There are also events being held at Brockley on the 12th, and Liverpool Street on the 18th.Small Business Series: Meet the Founder at City Lit College (11th December at 12:00pm): an accessible and friendly networking event for disabled founders and entrepreneurs, offering the opportunity to meet with others and share success stories. Includes two guest speakers, and light refreshments are provided.Coffee to Cocktails at Coffee 2 Cocktails (13th December at 12:00pm): taking place at the elegant Coffee 2 Cocktails bar in Harrow, this free event is ideal for female founders and professionals to come together, share their experiences, and build meaningful connections in a relaxed and stylish setting. Free business events in Newcastle this monthMotivation Monday: Coffee, Connection & Kickstart at The Lumen, Floor 4 (1st December at 9:30am): a meet-up designed for local entrepreneurs who want to start their week with clarity and momentum. Enjoy laid-back networking over coffee or tea, followed by a focused goal-setting session to map out your priorities for the week. Also includes 1:1 sessions with Paul Hughes, Business Support Advisor, on finding solutions to business-related challenges.NatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at The Lumen, Floor 4 (2nd December at 9:30am): a relaxed meetup for local business owners and entrepreneurs to chat, connect, and swap ideas over free Nespresso coffee. Includes activities that spark creativity, encourage problem-solving, and give everyone a chance to share wins.Start Up & Sole Trader Social at North East England Chamber of Commerce (2nd December at 4:00pm): an opening and welcoming event for sole traders, freelancers, and business owners to come together and share ideas and expand their network. No fixed agenda — just open networking and good conversations.Festive Connections at Manahatta Newcastle (9th December at 5:00pm): advertising itself as a “sparkling networking event”, Festive Connections combines networking and the social whirl of Christmas parties, allowing entrepreneurs to come together in a friendly and cheerful setting. Includes a glass of champagne on arrival.Founder’s Friday at The Lumen, Floor 4 (12th December at 9:30am): a free monthly event (every second Friday) that brings together local founders and entrepreneurs to network, collaborate, and learn from industry experts. Each session also features a “Founder Spotlight”, where entrepreneurs share their stories, including the highs, lows, and everything in between.PLATFORM at Crowne Plaza Newcastle (19th December at 9:00am): an opportunity for local entrepreneurs to connect with fellow business owners, investors, and potential partners, while learning about ways to grow their businesses. Includes short pitches and fireside chats. Tea, coffee, and light refreshments are provided. Free business events in Leeds this monthChristmas Networking Lunch at Azota (2nd December at 12:00pm): an event “filled with festive flavours, great company, and a dash of networking”, entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals alike are invited to a space where they can build valuable connections and explore new opportunities — all while enjoying delicious canapes and signature Christmas cocktails.Co-working day at Wizu Workspace (9th December at 9:00am): for freelancers and entrepreneurs wanting a change of scenery, Northern Affinity is running a free coworking day — a place where you can enjoy a new setting, get stuck into your work, and connect with other professionals throughout the day.Elevate & Exchange at The Knowledge Exchange, Level 1 (9th December at 9:30am): a monthly networking event held by the Leeds Beckett University, offering founders and entrepreneurs the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and exchange ideas.Hump Networking – Business Networking in Leeds City Centre at LeedsBID (10th December at 10:00am): a dynamic, interactive meetup that brings entrepreneurs together to share ideas, form new relationships, and widen their business circle.Welcome Wednesdays: Hub Tour and Networking at 2 Whitehall Quay, 3rd Floor (10th December at 10:00am): Leeds NatWest Accelerator is giving local entrepreneurs the chance to network with others, while also discovering how the program can support your business, including one-to-one support with a member of the team to discuss your goals and how they can help. Includes a tour of the Accelerator hub coworking space.Get Connected | Leeds at Clockwise Leeds (11th December at 10:00am): a free and easygoing B2B networking session for businesses in Leeds and nearby. With no strict structure or scripted introductions, you can simply turn up, mingle, and build real connections.Women’s Investor Network: Coffee, Connection & Collaboration Meetup in Leeds at Galleria (16th December at 11:00am): a free event that welcomes female founders, entrepreneurs, freelancers, startups, and anything in between. No pitches involved — just a relaxed and friendly space to share ideas, wins and challenges, and explore ways to support each other in the business world. Free business events in Sheffield this monthReach Winter Social: Sharing the Power of Partnerships at Bramall Lane (12th December at 12:00pm): a lively afternoon event offering plenty of networking opportunities, bringing together businesses from across different industries to share ideas and build relationships. Complimentary food and drink are provided. Free workshops in Sheffield There are also workshops available for Sheffield-based businesses and entrepreneurs in December — all completely free of charge. These include:Start & Thrive – Free Business Workshops in the Community at Sorby House (1st December at 12:30pm): a three-part business workshop series helping aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to develop the skills, confidence, and strategies needed to start and grow a successful business.Workshop 2 Unleash Your Entrepreneurial Potential Mindset Mastery for Women at Electric Works (5th December at 10:00am): a free workshop for inspiring female entrepreneurs on how to overcome common mindset roadblocks, clarify your business vision, and banish self-doubt.Intermediate SEO Workshop: From Foundations to Advanced Strategy at Electric Works (11th December at 10:00am): for those who already know the basics of search engine optimisation (SEO), this workshop is all about taking those skills to the next level. Free business events in Manchester this monthAccelerator Morning Mixer at NatWest Accelerator Manchester Hub (3rd December at 9:30am): enjoy a complimentary Nespresso coffee while connecting with fellow founders through relaxed conversation and engaging group activities.NeuroNetwork MCR Business Networking December at Manchester Central Library, 2nd Floor (3rd December at 1:00pm): a supportive space for local Neurodivergent business owners and entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas, and navigate the unique challenges of running a business.Business Networking Through Golf at Sale Golf Club (5th December at 8:30am): brings golf and networking together in a laid-back atmosphere, giving you the chance to connect with like-minded people on the golf course while enjoying complimentary bacon sandwiches (or dietary alternatives) and coffee.Smiley Happy People: Networking For Inspirational Business Owners (Dec) at Warrant House (9th December at 9:30am): a free event that includes informal networking, table discussions, and an interview with an inspirational business owner.Built Environment Christmas Networking Event at BrickHouse Social (10th December at 6:00pm): a lively, high-energy evening where you can network with others, enjoy music from a live DJ, and get the chance to win some great prizes in the raffle.SPLASH Enterprise Network at Flourish Hub (12th December at 10:00am): whether you’re a social enterprise owner or just an entrepreneur with a social conscience, this monthly meetup is a chance to connect with local organisations and discover new ways to create impact in the local community.Networking Evening – Christmas Special at Generator (18th December at 4:30pm): an evening of relaxed networking, offering the opportunity to connect and mingle with fellow entrepreneurs, freelancers and creatives in a warm and friendly environment. Refreshments are provided. Free business events in Liverpool this monthSakhi Hustle – Coworking Mondays at Bold Street Coffee (1st December at 10:00am): a chance to take a break from your usual workspace, as well as meet fellow entrepreneurs, freelancers, or other professionals. Free WiFi is provided.BOLD B2B Business Breakfast at Nova Scotia Liverpool (2nd December at 9:00am): a bright and engaging networking morning featuring insightful talks from guest speakers and the chance to meet other entrepreneurs. Complimentary coffee and pastries are provided.The pop-up office and social meetup at Novotel Paddington (4th December at 9:00am): organised by Jelly Liverpool, this “pop up office” allows local founders and entrepreneurs to escape their everyday work environment and join a fresh coworking space, while meeting and connecting with like-minded professionals. Relaxed Business Networking Free – In Person at Liverpool Business Centre (11th December at 9:00am): as the name suggests, Relaxed Business Networking events are all about bringing local entrepreneurs and professionals together without the rigid structure of typical networking. Attendees this month are asked to come along in Christmas jumpers and hats to spread some festive cheer. Long Lane: Business Support Drop-In & Networking at Kitchen No.4 (15th December at 12:00pm): a monthly networking event in North-East Liverpool, giving founders and startups the chance to get hands-on guidance from Liverpool City Council and connect with fellow business owners. Free business events in Birmingham this monthAccelerator Morning Mixer – Meet The Mentors at 2 St Philip’s Place (2nd December at 10:00am): a relaxed meetup for local entrepreneurs and business owners to connect over complimentary Nespresso coffee, with group activities to spark ideas and celebrate achievements. Also includes a chance to speak with experienced professionals to help support business growth.Grosvenor House Business Club at Grosvenor House (4th December at 5:00pm): as well as networking opportunities, this event also offers the opportunity to learn from Kate Cooper-Fay — CEO of Cooper-Fay Harris — on how to prepare for capital funding at every stage, understanding the investor and lender mindset, how to de-risk your business, and more. Refreshments are provided.The Midlands Business Expo Birmingham 2025 at Aston Villa FC, The Holte Suite (5th December at 10:00am): promoting a “day of networking, learning, and growth”, the Midlands Business Expo is the place to meet fellow business owners, discover new opportunities, and expand your network. Also includes workshops and exhibitors. While networking at this event is free, you will have to pay extra if you want to set up your own exhibition.Brummies Networking – Free Business Networking at Grosvenor Casino Broad St (9th December at 11:00am): a casual networking meet-up where real conversations take centre stage. Connect with like-minded people over tea or coffee — no pitches, just genuine conversations.FindaBiz New Venue at Kings Arm Pub & Indian Grill (9th December at 6:00pm): offers open and transparent networking without pitches or pushy sales tactics — just a friendly and welcoming space to grow your business circle and build meaningful connections. Refreshments are provided.hUBClub Networking Birmingham Business Park at UBC Birmingham NEC/Airport (10th December at 9:30am): a free event for business owners, CEOs, and sales leaders looking to improve their sales performance. Get practical insights into scalable sales systems, and how to achieve consistent and measurable growth. Business Brunch at Regus Birmingham Business Park (10th December at 11:00am): an opportunity for entrepreneurs and founders to connect with each other, while exploring Regus’s state-of-the-art offices, coworking spaces, and meeting rooms. Complimentary brunch and drinks are provided.Creating Connections networking event at Ibis Birmingham New Street (10th December at 6:00pm): true to its name, this free event is all about building business relationships through networking, collaboration, and interaction.Business Networking & Funding Focus – December Meetup at Women’s Enterprise and Community Hub (17th December at 10:00am): a networking event with a focus on business funding for early-stage startups in the East Birmingham area. A chance to connect with others, find funding options, and access support through the Community Hub. Free business events in Nottingham this monthNottingham Networking Brunch at Sherwood Manor (3rd December at 10:00am): promising an “energising morning of networking and connection-building”, this free brunch kicks off with 40-second pitches, where attendees will have the chance to showcase their products and services to an audience. This is followed by networking and an insightful presentation, before concluding with 10 minute one-to-one sessions with fellow business owners. Also being held on the 16th.Nottingham Sustainable Business – Mini Climate Assembly at Mammoth (3rd December at 6:00pm): a two-hour informal event where local businesses can network, discuss issues related to sustainability, and build consensus on climate and environmental action. Refreshments are provided.Built in Notts Christmas Social at The Oldknows Factory (4th December at 7:00pm): a friendly environment for entrepreneurs, students, and tech professionals to connect, exchange ideas and grow their professional networks.Networking at Portello Lounge (5th December at 8:00am): a friendly and informal event designed to connect businesses from all sectors — whether you’re a social media pro, photographer, accountant, or HR specialist, everyone is welcome.Christmas Networking Event & Fayre at Trent Lock Golf & Country Club (5th December at 11:30am): combines networking with a Christmas fair, offering entrepreneurs the opportunity to meet others in the local community, and access support on developing and growing your business.Nottingham Business Networking at Sheriff House (10th December at 5:00pm): a relaxed and casual networking meetup with no rigid structure — just open conversations, genuine connections, and the chance to meet like-minded professionals. Refreshments are provided. Free business events in Cambridge this monthMindstone Cambridge December AI Meetup at The Bradfield Centre (2nd December at 6:00pm): an event for AI startup founders who are eager to see how the technology can transform their operations. Explore innovative AI projects and gain insights from top experts in the field.Cambridge Xmas Meetup Supported By Disrupt at Station Tavern (4th December at 5:30pm): an open networking event in a fun and festive Christmas party atmosphere. Free business events in Oxford this monthStartup Huddle Oxford at Business and Intellectual Property Centre Oxfordshire (BIPC) (18th December at 6:00pm): one of the UK’s biggest monthly gatherings for entrepreneurs, Startup Huddle features two startup showcases, a Q&A session, and plenty of networking opportunities. Hot and cold refreshments are provided. Free business events in Bristol this monthNatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at NatWest Accelerator (2nd December at 10:00am): kickstart your morning with free Nespresso coffee and connect with fellow founders through networking and interactive activities designed to inspire collaboration and new ideas.Bristol Business Show at Brunel’s SS Great Britain (3rd December at 10:00am): held by Hashtag Events — one of the UK’s largest business event organisers — the Bristol Business Show is the place to be for entrepreneurs, business owners, and startups alike. With eight seminars and workshops, a large exhibition, and plenty of networking opportunities, this event offers everything you need to learn, connect, and discover new ways to grow your business.EOS UK users regional community event at DeskLodge House Bristol (NASA Room) (8th December at 9:30am): a session for founders and entrepreneurs to explore the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), hear expert advice from a guest speaker, and connect with like-minded individuals.South Glos Co-Working Club at Bristol and Bath Science Park (9th December at 10:00am): a flexible drop-in day where entrepreneurs and business owners can work from a new place, meet other professionals, and access one-to-one support from a Cool Ventures business mentor.Entrepreneurs Circle Local Meeting at Ruby Jeans The Parade Cafe & Restaurant (9th December at 6:30pm): a monthly meetup for Bristol founders and entrepreneurs to connect in a relaxed setting, with practical marketing insights and real-world tips you can apply to your business immediately.Accelerator Christmas Lunchtime Social at NatWest Accelerator (10th December at 12:30pm): no fixed agenda or schedule — just a chance to connect with fellow founders and entrepreneurs through a fun and welcoming Christmas lunch.SETsquared Festive Connect at Engine Shed (11th December at 6:00pm): an opportunity to network with Bristol’s tech community — perfect for tech startups or any businesses curious about the latest trends. Features new members’ pitches and the “Success of the Month” award, followed by pizza and drinks.Freelance Mum Netwalk Bristol: Business Networking at Ashton Court Mansion (15th December at 10:00am): for business and freelancing mums juggling work and childcare, the Freelance Mum Netwalk offers a relaxed chance to meet other parents in business, plus enjoy some fresh air with your little ones. Free business events in Cardiff this monthCardiff Entrepreneur and Start Up Summit at Chapter Arts Center (1st December at 6:00pm): a simple and informal meetup, offering the chance for local entrepreneurs and founders to exchange ideas, share experiences, and grow their business circle.Accelerator Morning Mixer at Natwest Entrepreneur Accelerator, 3rd Floor (2nd December at 9:30am): start your day with free Nespresso coffee and connect with founders, entrepreneurs, and mentors at a morning packed with ideas, insights, and growth opportunities.In Person Business Networking at The Maltings (2nd December at 9:30am): a friendly networking event open to business owners at every stage, from new founders to established leaders. Meet a diverse mix of professionals and expand your network.CARDIFF: The Business Mixer at Tramshed Tech (4th December at 6:00pm): open to entrepreneurs and freelancers of all stages — whether you’re a beginner or professional — this free event is all about bringing the South Wales business community together to connect, collaborate, and share ideas. Includes guest speakers and free refreshments are provided.DIVERGE: December 2025 at Tramshed Tech (9th December at 10:00am): created for Neurodivergent founders, this monthly meetup offers a welcoming space to network, collaborate, and co-work in a supportive, judgment-free environment.CBL Cardiff Breakfast Meeting at The Coach & Horses Hotel & Restaurant (26th December at 7:30am): a monthly breakfast gathering for Christian business leaders to connect, share insights, and talk about the challenges and opportunities of today’s business world over free tea and coffee. Free business events in Edinburgh this monthConnectED, Edinburgh Business Networking at Hotel Indigo (2nd December at 8:30am): a weekly networking gathering where founders and business owners can connect with a broad mix of entrepreneurs, consultants, SMEs, charity leaders, agency teams, and corporate professionals.Accelerator Social at RBS Accelerator Hub (2nd December at 9:30am): a relaxed and welcoming space for founders and innovators to share experiences, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships. No fixed agenda included — just open and informal networking.Local Business Networking at Liberton Golf Club (5th December at 6:45am): an early start, but a great opportunity for founders to expand their network, plus get support on developing and growing their business.She Scales at RBS Accelerator Hub (18th December at 9:30am): designed for female founders, this coworking and networking meetup creates a supportive space to connect, share ideas, and get practical advice from other professionals. Free business events in Glasgow this monthRoyal Bank Accelerator Morning Mixer at Accelerator Hub, 4th Floor (2nd December at 9:30am): a vibrant morning for founders to connect, swap ideas, and build meaningful relationships in a friendly and welcoming environment.Business Networking at Hillhead Sports Club (4th December at 8:00am): a weekly gathering for entrepreneurs to network, share challenges, and find the support they need to grow their business.The Golf Bar Business Networking Event at The Golf Bar (4th December at 3:00pm): a fun evening networking event where entrepreneurs and founders alike can come together and connect over drinks and golf-themed activities.Founders Live Glasgow at Barclays Eagle Labs (4th December at 6:00pm): the place for entrepreneurs to connect, pitch their business, and compete for $1m in cash savings on 100+ essential apps and services, plus a spot on the Founders Live Prime Time regional qualifiers. You can sign up through Eventbrite if you just want to attend for networking, but to pitch your business, you’ll need to apply here.8BN and Club Synergy Outdoor Networking at Doulton Fountain (The Peoples Palace) (5th December at 10:30am): 8 Business Networking and Club Synergy have teamed up to hold a monthly netwalk — offering the chance for entrepreneurs to make new connections while getting some fresh air. Dogs and children are welcome.Glasgow – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup (11th December 6:00pm): a free meetup for business owners interested in sustainability — offering practical tips and networking opportunities in a relaxed, pitch-free environment.8 Business Networking Coffee Morning DEC (Christmas Edition) at The Alchemist Glasgow (17th December at 9:30am): casual networking meets round-table discussions, ending the morning with a prize draw for some added excitement. Christmas jumpers and hats are also welcome, and there may be an appearance for the big man himself, so keep your eyes peeled.Loake Glasgow Business Club Christmas event at Loake Shoemakers (18th December at 8:00am): a free networking event in central Glasgow, giving business owners the chance to meet and connect with professionals from a variety of industries in a fun and festive atmosphere. 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.