80+ FREE networking events to check out in September 2025 Be “back to school ready” by growing your network for the upcoming Autumn. These are 82 free business events you won’t want to miss. Written by Emily Clark Published on 28 August 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 That “back to school” feeling is creeping in again as summer winds down and autumn rolls in.But for small business owners, founders, and entrepreneurs, it’s less about classrooms and more about brushing up on your skills, sharing ideas, and connecting (or reconnecting) with others through networking.A new season is always a good time to meet new people, share what you’re working on, and find collaborations that can push things forward.If you’re feeling a little lost on where to start, we’ve pulled together 82 free business events happening across the UK this September that you’ll definitely want on your radar. 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 monthNatwest Accelerator Morning Mixer at 214 Bishopsgate (2nd September at 9:30 am): A monthly meetup for founders and entrepreneurs alike to connect with others and recharge over complimentary Nespresso coffee. Also includes founder-focused group activities for brainstorming, swapping ideas, and sharing wins.Born or Made in Brixton at 3Space International House (3rd September at 8:30 am): A free event for all founders and business owners in Brixton, whether you’re a sole trader, a non-profit, or an established entrepreneur. A chance to share challenges, celebrate successes, and build a supportive network.HUSTLE London Canary Wharf London Entrepreneur Networking Event at The George (2nd September at 5:00 pm): This monthly, relaxed meetup offers the chance to connect with potential mentors, employers, and advisors, helping you build relationships to shape the future of your business. Also being held at Liverpool Street on the 9th and Soho on the 16th. For over 25s only.eCom Collab Club at ODEON Luxe West End (10th September at 8:00 am): A gathering for ecommerce businesses and professionals, where you can connect with the brightest minds in the industry, build partnerships, and get the insights you need to scale your business. Includes a panel of expert speakers and comes with coffee and breakfast snacks.Tech Startup Networking London – Series A/Venture Capital Networking Event at Archer Street Soho (16th September at 4:00 pm): An exclusive event designed for tech startups ready to scale and connect with people who can help them grow, from potential business partners and clients to influential angel investors. For over 25s only, and a smart dress code is enforced. The Connect2Collab Forum – September Edition at Spaces (18th September at 6:45 pm): Advertising itself as a “go-to platform for growth, collaboration, and meaningful connections”, this free event gives founders the opportunity to build genuine connections and gain practical strategies to launch, manage, and scale their business.Small Business Series: Meet the Founder at The Conduit (22nd September at 12:00 pm): With the aim of bringing female founders together, Grow London’s event is all about helping entrepreneurs connect with like-minded individuals, share what they learned in their business journey, and get help with the challenges of starting a business. Includes three guest speakers and a mindfulness workshop.Business Clinic & Networking Cafe – September at The Chiswick Cinema (24th September at 11:00 am): A space for founders based in West London to cowork and network with fellow entrepreneurs in a relaxed and supportive environment. Experts will also be available to offer free 30-minute sessions to help tackle challenges and find new growth opportunities.B2B eCommerce Industry Networking Drinks at Fremantle Bar & Kitchen (24th September at 5:00 pm): Just a five-minute walk away from the London Excel centre, this free event offers the opportunity for ecommerce professionals to grow their network, share their knowledge of the latest trends and advancements in B2B ecommerce, and connect with talented individuals within the sector.Push-Pull-Pitch at London Weightlifting: Strength & Conditioning (27th September at 10:00 am): This casual meetup combines networking with weightlifting, giving founders, operators, and investors a unique way to connect. Lift, learn, and build new relationships while getting in a good workout, all before relaxing with coffee and conversation. Free business events in Newcastle this monthMotivation Monday: Coffee, Connection & Kickstart at The Lumen, Floor 4 (1st September at 9:30 am): Held weekly, this free morning event is designed to give you a fresh dose of inspiration. Starts with informal networking over coffee or tea, followed by a goal-sharing session for the week. You’re also free to stick around afterwards and use the venue’s free coworking space until 5 pm.NatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at The Lumen, Floor 4 (2nd September at 9:30 am): Much like its London counterpart, Newcastle’s accelerator morning mixer event is all about offering entrepreneurs the chance to recharge and connect with a supportive community over complimentary Nespresso coffee. Includes group activities for brainstorming, sharing ideas, and celebrating successes.No Suit Club Business Networking at Tickets Bar Newcastle (10th September at 3:00 pm): As the name suggests, there are no suits or formal attire required for this free event — just open and casual networking over drinks.Founder’s Friday at The Lumen, Floor 4 (12th September at 9:30 am): Held every second Friday of the month, Founder’s Friday is all about bringing local entrepreneurs together to connect, collaborate, and get inspired by professionals from multiple industries. It also includes a “Founder Spotlight” session where you can hear directly from entrepreneurs who will share their journeys, challenges, and wins.Slice & Social at Twenty Twenty Bar Newcastle (24th September at 6:00 pm): The very first Slice & Social event for social impact businesses. An opportunity to network with fellow entrepreneurs, find collaborators who share your vision, and get inspired by a panel of guest speakers — all with delicious pizza.Startup Up & Sole Trader Social at North East Chamber of Commerce (25th September at 4:00 pm): This is a chance for local businesses to expand their network, meet new people, and share ideas with others. The North East Chamber of Commerce team will be there to help introduce you if you’re new, and coffee and snacks are provided.HUSTLE Newcastle Entrepreneur Networking Event at All Bar One (25th September at 5:00 pm): This meetup offers a laid-back atmosphere where founders and business owners can make meaningful connections. It’s the perfect place to meet your next mentor, advisor, or business partner.Tech Startup Networking Newcastle-Series A/Venture Capital Networking Event at All Bar One (25th September at 6:00 pm): An event to help tech startups thrive by offering the chance to mingle with potential clients, future partners, and angel investors who can help your business grow. For over 25s only, with a smart dress code.Together We Rise Up at The Lumen, Floor 4 (26th September at 9:30 am): A monthly in-person gathering, where female founders and women-led businesses can network in an open and supportive space, plus gain valuable insights from guest speakers and hands-on activities.Final Fridays Networking at The Alchemist Newcastle (26th September at 2:00 pm): A great opportunity for Newcastle-based businesses to connect with the North East’s top entrepreneurs, get inspired by industry leaders, and access TAPinto® Final Fridays’ online community. Free business events in Leeds this monthConnect & Collaborate X Entrepreneur Social Network at Clockwise Leeds (2nd September at 10:00 am): A relaxed and informal morning where you can connect with entrepreneurs and explore new collaboration opportunities. You’ll also get a free day pass to Clockwise, Leeds’ fully equipped coworking space.Hump Networking at LeedsBID (3rd September at 11:00 am): A dynamic networking event to connect with others, along with guest speakers from YorkshireLive, Reach Regionals, and Leeds BID. Refreshments are provided.Business Social at Bowcliffe Hall (8th September at 8:30 am): For those “tired of the usual networking yawns”, this free event is bringing a fun twist to regular business networking through a pro race motorsport simulator. Breakfast is provided.Network AM – networking for professionals at Ascensor (9th September at 7:30 am): A morning where local businesses and startups can meet with fellow professionals from various industries, share business ideas, and collaborate on projects over a cup of coffee. Also includes guest speakers and the opportunity to present your own business.Co-working day at Wizu Workspace (9th September at 9:00 am): A great opportunity for those looking for a change of scenery, while looking to expand their network. Starts at 9 am, but there’s no set agenda, just pop in whenever works for you.Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at The Canary (11th September at 6:00 pm): The perfect opportunity for local businesses to embrace sustainability by learning how to be more environmentally responsible and connect with other like-minded professionals. No business pitches or panels, just real conversations and actionable insights.Breakfast Networking at Park House by Spacemade (16th September at 8:30 am): This event offers a relaxed morning of networking, with coffee and breakfast treats provided. Also includes a guest speaker presentation by Gina Buckle, offering advice on fun branding beyond social media, and how to keep a consistent brand voice.The Marketing Meetup IRL: Leeds at Genio (23rd September at 6:00 pm): An event for marketing professionals to come together in an informal and friendly setting. Includes a panel of guest speakers, and refreshments are provided.Bulgarian female founders in Leeds at Avenue HQ (25th September at 1:30 pm): A niche event specifically for Bulgarian female entrepreneurs, offering a space for founders and startups to meet peers, hear success stories, and gain valuable insights into the business world. Free business events in Sheffield this monthBusiness Networking – Sheffield Business Peer to Peer Forum at datamills (9th September at 10:00 am): An informal “share” networking event, where each attendee is given a two-minute slot to introduce themselves, explain what makes their product/service beneficial, and share a current challenge or win. Also offers the opportunity to get feedback, insights, and fresh ideas with others.Sheffield- Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at Triple Point Brewery (11th September at 6:00 pm): An open networking meetup, where you can discover how your business can be more environmentally responsible. No pitches or panels.Sheffield DM #36: September 2025 at Sheffield Plat (25th September at 5:30 pm): For businesses looking to improve their marketing skills, this free business event is the perfect opportunity to network with other entrepreneurs and learn essential skills from guest speakers in search engine optimisation (SEO), targeting the Gen Z audience and creating a presence on LinkedIn. Free business events in Manchester this monthAccelerator Morning Mixer at NatWest Accelerator Manchester Hub (2nd September at 9:30 am): A chance for founders and entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and recharge. Includes complimentary Nespresso coffee and group activities where you can brainstorm solutions, exchange ideas, and share your biggest wins with a supportive community.Business Networking Through Golf at Sale Golf Club (5th September at 8:30 am): A free event where you can connect with fellow entrepreneurs, build new relationships, and expand your network through a friendly game of golf. Complimentary bacon sandwiches (or dietary alternatives) and coffee are provided.The Marketing Meetup IRL: Manchester at Auto Trader UK (9th September at 6:00 pm): This event brings marketing professionals together in a friendly, no-pressure environment. Connect with your peers, get fresh ideas from a panel of guest speakers, and enjoy some complimentary refreshments.Tameside Female Entrepreneurs Networking Event at Graze Manchester (18th September at 11:00 am): A place for Tameside-based female entrepreneurs to meet like-minded professionals, plus hear from two women guest speakers on the growth mindset and human resources (HR). Tea, coffee, cakes and sandwiches are available to purchase.Pitch Manchester: Showcase Your Business & Network with Like Minded People at Hotel Motel One (20th September at 1:00 pm): This is an opportunity to perfect your pitch and build valuable connections. Practice your elevator pitch in front of a supportive audience while meeting fellow founders, business owners, and potential partners who can help you grow.Tech Startup Networking Manchester-Series A/Venture Capital Networking Event at BLVD Manchester (25th September at 5:00 pm): An event for tech startups to meet potential partners, clients, and angel investors in a professional setting. The evening will also feature expert talks on venture capital funding, peer-to-peer MVP reviews, and market strategy. For over 25s only, with a smart dress code.HUSTLE Manchester Entrepreneur Networking Event at BLVD Manchester (25th September at 6:00 pm): A chance to expand your network and find the key people who can help your business grow in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. For over 25s only, with a smart dress code. Free business events in Liverpool this monthFounder Funding Groups – Round Table at Avenue HQ (3rd September at 12:00 pm): This event offers a founder-focused session exploring how to identify investors for early-stage and growing businesses, with networking opportunities and advice from experienced mentors and investors.real5 Liverpool South Networking Lunch at Space Coffee Bar and Grill (5th September at 12:00 pm): A casual networking event where business owners and entrepreneurs alike can connect, share ideas, and expand their network, all while enjoying lunch in a relaxed setting.Start Up September at Clockwise Offices (9th September at 9:30 am): Offering “a day of fine-tuned support for Liverpool-based start ups and scale ups”, Clockwise Offices’ free event is providing networking opportunities, multiple workshops, complimentary professional headshots, and the chance to cowork in their space in the afternoon. Breakfast and lunch are also provided.real5 Liverpool Central Lunch Summar Social at Zenn Liverpool (12th September at 3:00 pm): Summer isn’t quite over for real5, as it’s offering a fashionably late summer social networking event, where entrepreneurs of all stages can mingle and connect over delicious food and drink.Long Lane Business Networking at Kitchen no.4 (15th September at 12:00 pm): This free, monthly networking event is for businesses in North-East Liverpool’s Long Lane area. A relaxed and open event where you can connect with fellow business owners, share insights, and get expert guidance on sustainable growth.HUSTLE Liverpool Entrepreneur Networking at Pier Eight Restaurant & Bar (23rd September at 5:00 pm): A relaxed and social networking event where founders and business owners can effortlessly connect with mentors, advisors, and potential partners.September Connect and Collaborate Liverpool at The Municipal Hotel and Spa (24th September at 10:00 am): A lively morning of networking designed to help you build genuine professional relationships. Offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for connecting with people and finding collaboration opportunities. Free business events in Birmingham this monthBrummies Networking – Free Business Networking at Grosvenor Casino (9th September at 11:00 am): This event is designed for genuine, no-pressure networking. Expect straightforward conversations, not pitches or speeches. Tea and coffee are provided.Launch Pad: Networking for Birmingham businesses at Library of Birmingham (17th September at 5:00 pm): An evening of more than just small talk. Make meaningful connections, gain valuable industry insights, and have inspiring conversations with other professionals. The evening will also feature guest speakers and engaging activities.HUSTLE Birmingham Entrepreneur Networking Event at O Bar (18th September at 6:00 pm): Just like all HUSTLE networking events, this one is designed to be a chilled and welcoming experience. This is the perfect place to meet your next mentor, swap ideas with other founders, and find your next big collaboration. Free business events in Nottingham this monthNottingham – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at Broadway Cinema, Mezz Bar (2nd September at 6:00 pm): The perfect opportunity for local businesses to learn how to embrace sustainability. Learn how to make your business more environmentally responsible and connect with other like-minded professionals.Networking at Portello Lounge (5th September at 8:00am): This relaxed and welcoming meetup aims to bring a wide range of businesses together for networking, whether you’re a social media expert, a photographer, an accountant, or an HR specialist. There’s also a meetup at The Ruddington Arms on the 19th of September. Free business events in Cambridge this monthMindstone Cambridge September AI Meetup at The Bradfield Centre (2nd September at 6:00 pm): For AI startups and businesses looking to integrate the technology, this event is the perfect opportunity to learn about the latest AI projects that are making a real impact, gain valuable insights from industry experts, and expand your network. Includes three informative talks, followed by networking with pizza and drinks.Cowork Crew Cambridge at Fora (12th September at 9:00 am): A free event that “takes the best bits of coworking and networking and jumbles it together”, allowing founders and entrepreneurs to try out a new working space, while connecting with others. Also includes a talk by Jodie Newman, founding owner of the Business Allotment, on how to spark creativity.The Marketing Meetup IRL: Cambridge at The Bradfield Centre (23rd September at 6:00 pm): This event brings marketing professionals together in a friendly, no-pressure environment. Connect with your peers, get fresh ideas from a panel of guest speakers, and enjoy some complimentary refreshments.Drinks for Entrepreneurial Folk at The Hawk’s Club (23rd September at 7:30 pm): An unstructured event, with no pitches or guest speakers involved, just pure networking in an informal environment. Open to those who work in a startup, are starting a business, or just want to support early-stage companies. Free business events in Oxford this monthOxLiT: Oxford Leaders In Tech – September 2025 MeetUp at Business and Intellectual Property Centre Oxfordshire (BIPC) (9th September at 6:00 pm): An event specifically for tech founders, technologists and leaders, offering networking and insights from two innovative guest speakers.Get Connected – Oxford at Metro Bank (18th September at 9:30 am): A fun and informative networking event, providing a welcoming space to mingle and meet fellow entrepreneurs. The GetAhead team will also be there to share tips on successful networking.Startup Huddle Oxford – networking event at Business and Intellectual Property Centre Oxfordshire (BIPC) (18th September at 6:00 pm): As one of the UK’s biggest monthly networking events, Startup Huddle kicks off with two featured startups, followed by a Q&A and open networking. Hot and cold refreshments are provided.Mindstone Oxford September AI Meetup at The Slow and Steady (24th September at 6:00 pm): Whether you’re an AI startup or a business curious about the technology, this free event allows you to learn about the latest AI projects, get expert insights, and grow your network. Followed by networking over pizza and drinks. Free business events in Bristol this monthNetworking for founders, creators, freelancers + rebels at The Square Club (1st September at 6:00 pm): A monthly meetup tailored for young entrepreneurs, offering a space to build connections, discover new opportunities and get hands-on advice for tackling the challenges of running a business.Rebel Run Club at Temple Studio (3rd September at 6:00 pm): A monthly run through Bristol city, giving entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners a unique way to network and connect while getting some exercise. Also being held on the 17th.Entrepreneurs Circle Local Meeting at The Inn at Yanleigh (9th September at 6:30 pm): This is a meetup designed for Bristol-based founders and entrepreneurs. A chance to connect with peers, share experiences, and get practical marketing insights you can apply to your business right away.Meet up at Ye Shakespeare (25th September at 12:00 pm): Hosted by Rhoda Brain and Duncan Russell of Miint Marketing, this is a vibrant lunchtime networking event helping local businesses build meaningful relationships and strengthen ties within the community. Free business events in Cardiff this monthIn Person Business Networking at The Maltings (2nd September at 9:30 am): Held every first Tuesday of the month, this networking event welcomes business owners of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned entrepreneur, this is a great opportunity to connect with a diverse community and grow your network.Cardiff Start-Up Social, Innovators Uncensored – September at Mad Dog Brewery Co (11th September at 6:00 pm): A chance to meet up to 150 other entrepreneurs and SMEs in a relaxed, no-pressure atmosphere. Also features a “Fireside Chat” with serial angel investor Kevin Smith, who will share how he got his first customers, built his first product, funded the business, and more.CARDIFF: Find Your Funder at One Central Square (15th September at 10:00 am): For those looking to grow their business, this event offers the opportunity to explore business funding options, including potential access to business grants. Also includes networking at the end.HUM4NS Talks Cardiff 2025 at voco St David’s (15th September at 7:00 pm): This event offers valuable networking opportunities and a panel of inspiring speakers discussing the challenges and valuable lessons they’ve learned from their personal business journeys.DIVERGE: September 2025 at Tramshed Tech (23rd September at 10:00 am): A monthly gathering specifically for Neurodivergent founders to connect, cowork, and network in a safe and supportive environment.CBL Cardiff Breakfast Meeting at Village Hotel Cardiff (26th September at 7:30 am): This monthly breakfast meeting is a chance for Christian business leaders to connect, share insights, and discuss the pressures and opportunities of today’s business world over a complimentary tea and coffee. Free business events in Edinburgh this monthFounders Live Edinburgh at CodeBase (11th September at 5:30 pm): Calling itself the “ultimate entrepreneurial experience”, Founders Live offers more than just networking; it’s also a chance for entrepreneurs to pitch their business and have the chance to win $1m in cash savings on 100+ essential apps and services for startups, plus an appearance on the Founders Live Prime Time regional qualifiers. The latter is optional, but you can apply to pitch your business.EOS UK users regional community event at Surgeons Quarter (17th September at 10:00 am): An event where business founders and entrepreneurs can learn everything they need to know about the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), with insights from a guest speaker. Includes networking opportunities.She Scales at RBS Accelerator Hub (18th September at 9:30 am): A networking and coworking event that offers female founders a supportive space to connect, collaborate, and step outside their comfort zone.BIMA x DMA Scotland | Magic Happening at Cold Town House (18th September at 5:00 pm): BIMA & DMA Scotland are coming together to hold a late-summer drinks event celebrating the most dynamic digital and marketing communities, with the chance for business owners and entrepreneurs to expand their networks.Garandor x Clockwise: Startup Journey & Networking at Clockwise Edinburgh Leith (18th September at 5:30 pm): A free event where the founders of Clockwise will share their insights on building a startup, including the toughest challenges, biggest milestones and most valuable lessons learned. Includes networking opportunities.The Collaboration Club – Monthly Networking for Business Owners at Hotel Indigo (24th September at 8:00 pm): The Collaboration Club is all about warm and welcoming events, and their networking sessions are no exception. This free event offers women founders the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, expand their network, and find their next collaboration.The Marketing Meetup IRL: Edinburgh at Rationale (25th September at 6:00 pm): A friendly, informal event for marketing professionals to network and gain valuable insights from a panel of guest speakers. Refreshments are provided. Free business events in Glasgow this monthBusiness Networking in Glasgow at Nuffield Health Glasgow Central Fitness & Wellbeing Gym (3rd September at 6:30 am): While it’s an early start, BNI Dynamo’s weekly networking event is all about leaving you feeling energised and ready to take on the business world. It offers the chance to network, share your goals, and showcase what you do with a 10-minute spotlight. Free breakfast is provided.Business Networking at Hillhead Sports Club (4th, 11th, 18th, 25th September at 8:00 am): This weekly meetup is a space where entrepreneurs can find the support they need to drive their business forward. Share challenges, gain valuable insights, and build lasting connections with a community that understands your journey.Founders Live Glasgow at Barclays Eagle Labs (4th September at 6:00 pm): Founders Live is where entrepreneurs come to network and pitch their business for a chance to win $1 million in cash savings on 100+ essential apps and services and an appearance on the Founders Live Prime Time regional qualifiers. You can sign up through Eventbrite if you just want to attend for networking, but to apply to pitch your business, you’ll need to apply here.8 Business Networking Coffee Morning SEPT at The Alchemist Glasgow (17th September at 9:30 am): This event takes a “mix and match” approach, giving you the freedom to connect at your own pace. Also has structured round-table group sessions and ends on a high note with a fun prize draw.Networking Coffee Morning with BIPC Glasgow at The Mitchell Library (24th September at 10:00 am): An inclusive, sit-down event where entrepreneurs can connect with fellow founders and learn how BIPC Glasgow can support their business growth. Free hot drinks and breakfast rolls are provided.She Scales: Women Founders Get-together & Coworking Day at Accelerator Hub, 4th Floor (30th September at 10:00 am): This event offers a dedicated space for women founders to connect with peers, share ideas, and get work done alongside a community of entrepreneurs. Includes a guest speaker (to be announced) and complimentary coffee and pastries. 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.