75+ FREE networking events to grow your business circle in January 2026 Shake off the post-holiday slump and start the new year by growing your network with these 77 events happening in January — all completely free to attend. Written by Emily Clark Published on 2 January 2026 Our experts We are a team of writers, experimenters and researchers providing you with the best advice with zero bias or partiality. You might be tempted to hibernate during January, but it’s actually a prime time for networking.This is the month where the “hidden” business deals happen. Last year, business creation in the UK grew by 2.8% in early 2025, proving that the new year is the peak time for new partnerships.So, while your competitors are still nursing a festive hangover, the UK’s most agile founders are out there shaking hands and locking in partnerships for Q1.After all, 70% of small businesses find their most valuable connections through word-of-mouth, and there’s no better place to spark up that chat than a free local meetup.Below, we’ve found 77 ways for you to stop “doom scrolling” and start growing your business for the new year. 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 monthFounders Running Club at Inner Circle & York Bridge (3rd January at 9:30am): the Founders Running Club combines networking and running, bringing founders and entrepreneurs together to build connections, grow their business network, and stay active at the same time. Held weekly.Start Up Wandsworth Coffee Mornings at Putney Library (5th January at 10:30am): for those looking for laid-back networking, this free coffee morning meetup is ideal for entrepreneurs to meet, share business ideas, and connect in a comfortable and easygoing setting.NatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at NatWest Accelerator Hub (6th January at 9:30am): held every month, the NatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer is a chance for founders and entrepreneurs to connect and recharge over complimentary Nespresso coffee. Also includes sessions for brainstorming and idea sharing.HUSTLE London Canary Wharf London Entrepreneur Networking Event at The George (6th January at 5:00pm): a casual monthly meetup where you can connect with mentors, employers, and advisors, plus build relationships that help move your business forward. Also being held at Liverpool Street on the 13th and Soho on the 20th. For over 25s only.Born or Made in Brixton at 3Space International House (7th January at 8:30am): from solo founders to growing teams, this event is for Brixton-based entrepreneurs to come together to share ideas, overcome challenges, and build a strong network.Harrow Ladies Who Latte at Cafeto (8th January at 10:00am): a relaxed coffee morning for local female founders to connect, share experiences, and build meaningful relationships. Also being held at Liverpool Street on the 15th and Greenwich on the 23rd.NatWest Accelerator Female Founder Networking at NatWest Moorgate (14th January at 10:00am): a welcoming event for female entrepreneurs to meet other founders, build genuine connections, and learn from shared experiences. Tea and coffee are provided.MindHub x Entrepreneurs: Meet your local community at Southbank Centre (16th January at 6:00pm): ditching the usual “sit and listen” webinars and panels, MindHub’s new event is a great opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, get support for business-related challenges, and share experiences. Tech Startup Networking London – Series A/Venture Capital Networking Event at Archer Street Soho (20th January at 7:00pm): designed for tech startups looking to scale their business, this exclusive networking event offers access to potential business partners, clients, and influential angel investors. Strictly for over 25s with a smart dress code required.eCom Collab Club ® at ODEON Luxe West End (21st January at 8:00am): built for ecommerce businesses and professionals, this free event is all about connecting, exchanging ideas, and learning from industry experts. Enjoy great coffee, light breakfast bites, and an inspiring panel focused on growing and scaling your business. Free business events in Newcastle this monthMotivation Monday: Coffee, Connection & Kickstart at The Lumen, Floor 4 (5th January at 9:30am): motivation is needed more than ever in January, and this free event delivers by offering a friendly, welcoming space with networking over tea or coffee. This is followed by a goal-sharing circle where attendees talk through their intentions for the week ahead. Free coworking is also available until 5pm.Accelerator Ignition at The Lumen, Floor 4 (7th January at 9:30am): with a mission to help business owners, founders, and startups to “start the year with a purpose”, Ignition is a free event where you can meet likeminded people, get inspired by real-life stories (including the highs and lows), and learn how the NatWest Accelerator programme can help your business.Chamber Connect: Newcastle at Gaucho (13th January at 9:30am): an informal drop-in event where you can connect with local businesses. Engagement managers will also be there to introduce you to others, and start a topic of conversation to get things going. No agenda or schedule involved.PLATFORM at Crowne Plaza Newcastle (23rd January at (9:00am): this free event is a chance for local entrepreneurs to network with fellow business owners, investors, and potential partners — all while discovering ways to grow their businesses. Also includes short pitches and fireside chats, with tea, coffee, and refreshments provided.HUSTLE Newcastle Entrepreneur Networking Event at All Bar One (29th January at 5:00pm): as with its London counterpart, HUSTLE Newcastle offers a relaxed, social environment where founders and business owners can connect with mentors, advisers, and potential partners. For over 25s only.Tech Startup Networking Newcastle – SeriesA/Venture Capital Networking Event at All Bar One (29th January at 5:00pm): an exclusive event for tech startups to connect with potential clients, partners, and angel investors who can support your growth. Strictly for over 25s with a smart dress code required. Free business events in Leeds this monthWomen’s Investor Network: Coffee, Connection, & Collaboration Meetup at Galleria (13th January at 11:00am): a free, welcoming space for female entrepreneurs, freelancers, and startups of all kinds. No pitches included — just a relaxed environment to share ideas, celebrate wins, discuss challenges, and support each other.Get Connected | Leeds at Clockwise Leeds (15th January at 10:00am): a free, informal B2B networking event for businesses in Leeds and the surrounding area. No formal agenda or elevator pitches are included — simply show up, mingle, and connect with other professionals.Breakfast Networking Event at Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa (22nd January at 8:30am): promising a “morning of connection and conversation”, this free business event offers the chance to network with fellow entrepreneurs and likeminded professionals over tea, coffee, breakfast rolls, and other refreshments. Also includes a prize giveaway.Entrepreneur Social Networking at The Decanter (27th January at 5:00pm): a zero-pressure, casual business event for local entrepreneurs and founders to meet potential clients, investors, employees, and industry experts. Free business events in Sheffield this monthMonthly Informal Networking Lunch at No.4 Licensed Coffee House (7th January at 12:00pm): a welcoming space for local entrepreneurs to connect with likeminded people and share ideas over lunch or a coffee.Startup Social: Sheffield at Hideaway (29th January at 6:00pm): open to founders and entrepreneurs of all backgrounds, Startup Social offers a monthly event to meet fellow business owners, share what you’re working on, and find potential collaborators. No pitching or panels included. Free business events in Manchester this monthAccelerator Morning Mixer at NatWest Accelerator Manchester Hub (6th January at 9:30am): start your day with fellow founders at this relaxed morning meetup. Enjoy free Nespresso coffee, exchange ideas, brainstorm with others, and share your wins in a supportive space.NeuroNetwork MCR Business Networking January at Manchester Central Library (7th January at 1:00pm): a welcoming space for local neurodivergent entrepreneurs to connect, exchange ideas, and tackle the challenges of running a business together.Business Networking Through Golf at Sale Golf Club (9th January at 8:30am): combines networking with golfing, letting you meet likeminded professionals on the course while enjoying complimentary coffee and bacon sandwiches (or dietary alternatives).Alex & His Sisters: Networking for Inspirational Women In Business (Jan) at The Con Club (13th January at 9:30am): a free event specifically for female founders to connect with each other in a friendly and welcoming space. Also includes an interview with a successful woman-led business for inspiration.Better Business Breakfast | Manchester at X+Why Manchester (15th January at 9:00am): hosted by The Better Business Network (BBN), this event offers speed networking with fellow entrepreneurs and founders, letting you grow your network and build meaningful connections. Please note that this event is only free as a taster for non BBM members, so you may have to pay for future events if you do not have a membership.SPLASH Enterprise Network at Flourish Hub (16th January at 10:00am): specifically for social enterprises or businesses with ethical goals, this free event is a great opportunity to connect with local organisations that support the growth and development of the local community.Queer in Tech at Social Refuge (20th January at 5:30pm): this free event promises an “evening of talks, networking, and community building” for LGBT+ founders in the tech industry to come together, share experiences, and expand their network.MBH Business Networking at Virgin Money (28th January at 1:30pm): a fun and friendly space offering an afternoon of open networking, giving you the chance to meet fellow founders and build meaningful connections. Also includes short presentations. While this event is free to attend, a donation is optional.Manchester – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint ™: Sustainability Meetup at Sandbar Manchester (29th January at 6:00pm): a free event for business owners passionate about sustainability. A chance to share ideas, gain practical tips, and network in a friendly, pitch-free environment. Free business events in Liverpool this monthBOLD B2B Business Breakfast at Nova Scotia Liverpool (6th January at 9:00am): kick off your morning with inspiring talks from guest speakers and plenty of networking opportunities. Complimentary coffee is provided.Relaxed Business Networking Free – In Person at Liverpool Business Centre (8th January at 9:00am): true to its name, Relaxed Business Networking brings local entrepreneurs and professionals together in a laid-back, no-pressure environment — no rigid structure, just genuine connections. real5 Liverpool Central Lunch Meeting at Flight Club Liverpool (16th January at 12:00pm): a fun and productive lunch meeting, offering the opportunity to connect with other business owners and professionals and expand your network over delicious food and drink.Sakhi Hustle – Coworking Tuesdays at 92 Degrees Coffee (20th January at 11:00am): a chance for you to take a break from your usual workspace and enjoy a free coworking space, plus meet other entrepreneurs and professionals. Tea, coffee, and snacks are available on payment, and free WiFi is provided.Free Coworking and Business Networking at Bean Coffee (22nd January at 9:00am): Jelly Liverpool is offering founders the opportunity to escape their everyday working environment and join a welcoming coworking space, where you can connect with likeminded people and get your work done. Free WiFi and desk space are provided.Connect Networking Liverpool at Showcase Cinema de Lux (22nd January at 10:00am): a simple and open networking event, where local founders and entrepreneurs have the chance to grow their business circle in a fun and engaging environment.Linked Over Lattes at Zaman Crepes & Coffee (29th January at 5:00pm): held every last Thursday of the month, Linked Over Lattes offers the chance to connect with others over coffee and learn from female professionals (including tech, product, and finance), international students, and other inspiring founders. Free business events in Birmingham this monthNatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at 2 St Philip’s Place (6th January at 9:30am): start your day with fellow founders at this laid-back morning event. Grab a free Nespresso coffee, join interactive group sessions, and connect with others to brainstore, share ideas, and celebrate successes.Brummies Networking – Free Business Networking at Grosvenor Casino Broad St (13th January at 11:00am): a relaxed networking meetup where authentic conversations take the spotlight. Connect with likeminded professionals over tea or coffee — no pitches required.FindaBiz New Venture at Kings Arms Sutton Coldfield (13th January at 6:00pm): open and transparent networking where connections happen naturally. No pitches or pushy sales tactics — just the chance to grow your network over free refreshments.Business Brunch at Regus Birmingham Business Park (14th January at 11:00am): an opportunity for founders to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, as well as explore Regus’s sleek offices, coworking spaces, and meeting rooms. Complimentary brunch and drinks are provided.Enterprise Networking Event at Soho House Museum (14th January at 12:00pm): a networking lunch event, where founders and entrepreneurs from all backgrounds can connect with others, and learn about the support available from Legacy WM’s enterprise programme.Launch Pad: Networking for Birmingham businesses at Library of Birmingham (21st January at 5:00pm): an evening made for worthy connections, insightful industry discussions, and engaging conversations with fellow professionals. Includes guest speakers and interactive activities.Birmingham – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint ™: Sustainability Meetup at Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food (21st January at 6:00pm): a free, informal gathering for business owners interested in sustainability. Connect with others, share practical tips, and enjoy a relaxed space.Rise & Shine: South & City College Innovation Hub – Networking at ibis Birmingham New Street Station (22nd January at 8:30am): a new networking event from the South & City College, where entrepreneurs from various industries can come together to connect, plus find potential business funding opportunities, free training programmes, apprenticeships and more. Breakfast is provided.HUSTLE Birmingham Entrepreneur Networking Event at O Bar (22nd January at 6:00pm): HUSTLE offers a dynamic networking event for founders, creators, and innovators to connect, share ideas, and build essential relationships that help grow their businesses.Coworking & Networking Day at Assay Studios (28th January at 9:00am): whether you’re a sole trader, business owner, or just looking for a change of scenery, TCN UK is offering a day to work and connect with fellow professionals in the sleek offices of Assay Studios. Free business events in Nottingham this monthPrimeTime Networking: Launch Event at Motorpoint Arena (13th January at 6:00pm): a launch of the Midlands’ newest networking group that promises a fun and relaxed evening of valuable networking and great conversations without the formalities. Includes an exclusive giveaway, a buffet, and a fully-stocked bar. Free business events in Cambridge this monthMindstone Cambridge January AI Meetup at The Bradfield Centre (8th January at 6:00pm): an event for AI startup founders looking to harness the power of AI technology to transform their businesses. Discover cutting-edge projects and gain insights from leading industry experts.Coworking With Purpose at PwC, St John’s Innovation Park (22nd January at 9:30am): welcome to all businesses and solopreneurs, this free coworking day offers the chance to connect and collaborate with others in a welcoming environment.Abbey Business Network at East Barnwell Community Centre (29th January at 9:00am): for business owners based in the Abbey area, this free event is a great chance to network, exchange ideas, and share goals for the new year. Free business events in Oxford this monthData Meetup at Business and Intellectual Property Centre Oxfordshire (BIPC) (8th January at 6:00pm): co-hosted by Humand Talent Solutions — a leading recruitment agency specialising in talent for tech startups — this free event offers businesses the chance to connect with professionals in the tech and data space. Guest speaker to be announced. Free business events in Bristol this monthBristol Start-Up Networking Night at Armada House (8th January at 6:00pm): an opportunity to connect with local entrepreneurs, SMEs, and business professionals within the Bristol area. Includes talks from Bristol businesses on their journey, and welcome drinks and canapes on arrival.South Glos Co-Working Club at Bristol and Bath Science Park (13th January at 10:00am): a flexible drop-in day for entrepreneurs and business owners to work from a new space, connect with other professionals, and get one-to-one support from a Cool Ventures business mentor.Bristol – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint ™: Sustainability Meetup at Clubhaus harbourside (13th January at 6:00pm): a free networking event for business owners focused on sustainability, offering practical insights in a relaxed and pitch-free environment. Tech Connect: Bristol Innovation Mixer at Armada House (15th January at 6:00pm): offers a casual evening for local tech startups and entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate, with a glass of prosecco on arrival. Includes a keynote speaker and a panel discussion. Canapes and finger foods are provided.Meet up at Ye Shakespeare (22nd January at 12:00pm): a lively lunchtime networking event hosted by Rhoda Brain and Duncan Russell of Miint Marketing, creating an energising space for local businesses to connect and collaborate.Bristol Creative Brunch at Boston Tea Party (29th January at 9:30am): enjoy a relaxed brunch while connecting with fellow founders and creatives. Includes fun and informal games, real conversations about wins and fails, and a key theme per brunch (this month’s theme is business operations).The Co-Work Collective at Bristol and Bath Science Park (29th January at 10:00am): with the aim of tackling the loneliness and isolation that comes with starting a business, this free coworking day offers a space for local professionals to work in a new environment and connect with each other. Three hours of free WiFi is included.Welcome in 2026 at Ritorno Lounge (29th January at 4:00pm): not just your average networking event, but an evening filled with connections, collaborations, and fun times all around. Includes a welcome drink, free snacks, and even cocktail making to commemorate the end of Dry January.Freelance Mum Netwalk Bristol: Business Networking at Ashton Court Mansion (30th January at 10:00am): made for business owners and freelancers balancing work and childcare, the Freelance Mum Netwalk offers a relaxed way to connect with other parents in business while enjoying fresh air with your little ones. Also being held in South Bristol on the 13th and North Bristol on the 22nd. Free business events in Cardiff this monthCardiff Entrepreneur and Start Up Summit at Chapter Arts Center (12th January at 6:00pm): an easygoing gathering where local entrepreneurs and founders can share ideas and experiences, and connect with potential collaborators.Cardiff – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint ™: Sustainability Meetup at Zerodegrees Microbrewery Restaurant (14th January at 5:30pm): a free and informal meetup for business owners to learn about sustainability, plus network with others. No pitches included.CBL Cardiff Breakfast Meeting at The Coach & Horses Hotel & Restaurant (23rd January at 7:30am): a monthly breakfast meetup for Christian business leaders to connect, share insights, and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing today’s business world. Free tea and coffee are provided. Free business events in Edinburgh this monthConnectED, Edinburgh Business Networking at Hotel Indigo (6th January at 8:30am): a weekly networking meetup bringing founders and business owners together with a diverse mix of entrepreneurs, consultants, SMEs, charity leaders, agency teams, and corporate professionals.Royal Bank Accelerator Morning Mixer at RBS Accelerator Hub (6th January at 9:30am): an engaging morning session for founders and entrepreneurs to connect, reset, and spark new ideas. Enjoy complimentary Nespresso coffee and take part in informal, founder-led activities designed for brainstorming, sharing insights, and celebrating progress together.Local Business Networking at Liberton Golf Course (9th January at 6:45am): starts early in the morning, but it’s a valuable opportunity for founders to build new connections and get support with developing and growing their business.Coffee Connections Edinburgh at The Alchemist (21st January at 9:30am): one of Edinburgh’s most popular business events, this meetup offers open networking for entrepreneurs at every stage — from first-time founders to experienced professionals. Please note that tickets are only free for your first visit, or if you become an EC member.She Scales at RBS Accelerator Hub (21st January at 9:30am): created for female founders, this coworking and networking meetup offers a supportive environment to connect, exchange ideas, and gain practical insights from fellow professionals.Greentech January Meetup at CodeBase Edinburgh (27th January at 9:00am): for greentech businesses, or those that want to be more sustainable, this monthly meetup is the ideal opportunity to meet people in the space and gain valuable insights from a greentech specialist. Breakfast is provided. Free business events in Glasgow this monthRoyal Bank Accelerator Morning Mixer at Accelerator Hub, 4th Floor (6th January at 9:30am): start your morning with fellow founders and entrepreneurs at this relaxed mixer, with complimentary Nespresso coffee included. Includes brainstorming and sharing ideas in a supportive and collaborative environment designed to inspire growth and celebrate wins.Business Networking at Hillhead Sports Club (8th January at 8:00am): a weekly meetup where entrepreneurs can connect, discuss challenges, and access the support they need to grow their business successfully.Glasgow – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint ™: Sustainability Meetup at Malones Irish Bar (8th January at 6:00pm): connect with fellow business owners interested in sustainability at this free meetup, plus learn practical tips and enjoy a relaxed, pitch-free setting.8 Business Networking Coffee Morning JAN at The Alchemist (14th January at 9:30am): known as a friendly, fun and relaxed networking event, it’s a good opportunity for Glasgow-based businesses to meet new contacts and build relationships. Also includes tips to help you network more effectively. Please note that tickets are only free for your first visit, or if you become an 8BN member.RBC Local Networking Meeting: Building Connections at Alea Casino (14th January at 10:00am): as part of the Revitalise Business Club’s mission to bring local business owners and entrepreneurs together, this free event offers the opportunity to meet fellow founders and build new relationships. Also includes 30-second introductions and a talk table segment to learn more about your new connections.Business Breakfast Club (Clydebank – January) at Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel (15th January at 8:30am): a space to meet or catch up with fellow business owners, SMEs, and entrepreneurs with coffee, tea, and breakfast rolls provided. Please note that this event is only free if this is your first time or second time attending. 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.