85+ FREE business and networking events to look out for in April 2026 Spring into the Easter season and start the new financial year with fresh connections with 87 free networking events you won’t want to miss this April. Written by Emily Clark Published on 19 March 2026 Our experts We are a team of writers, experimenters and researchers providing you with the best advice with zero bias or partiality. With spring finally making its appearance and many looking forward to the promise of the long bank holiday weekend and chocolate eggs, April also marks the start of the new financial year for entrepreneurs.But while you may be preparing your finances – especially with Making Tax Digital (MTD) just around the corner – you should also take a break from your laptop and connect with other founders through networking.Whether you’re planning to pitch your business, learn from industry experts, or just want to connect through casual coffee mornings, networking creates opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and finding fresh ideas – helping you to start the new quarter on a high note.To help you out, we’ve gathered 87 business and networking events happening across 13 UK cities in April – all free to attend. 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 monthStart Up Wandsworth Coffee Mornings at Putney Library (6th April at 10:30am): this free coffee morning is a great way for entrepreneurs to meet others, share ideas, and build connections in a friendly and welcoming space. Open to businesses of all stages.The business mission networking event at Caddi Club Wimbledon (7th April at 8:00am): a morning promising “coffee, conversation, and connections”, where entrepreneurs can meet fellow professionals. Also includes a fireside chat with an industry expert sharing actionable tips to take away. Business professional dress required.Morning Mixers at NatWest Accelerator Hub (7th April at 9:30am): a monthly meetup hosted by NatWest Accelerator where entrepreneurs can connect over complimentary Nespresso coffee and founder-focused group activities.eCom Collab Club ® at ODEON Luxe West End (8th April at 8:00am): the eCom Collab Club ® connects ecommerce businesses through networking, idea sharing, and insights from industry experts – all served with coffee, breakfast, and a growth panel.Harrow Ladies Who Latte at Cafeto (9th April at 10:00am): a relaxed coffee meetup for local female founders to meet, exchange ideas, and build relationships that help grow their businesses. Also being held in Brockley on the 10th and Greenwich on the 24th.Pinner Women In Business at The Whittington (9th April at 10:30am): held on the second Thursday of every month, this informal networking event is a space for female entrepreneurs to connect over the pressures and challenges of the business world. Babies and children are welcome.Coffee Friday at Eastern Gateway Building (10th April at 10:00am): a chance for entrepreneurs and business owners to meet new connections while enjoying some complimentary coffee and pastries. Support Managers from Grow Local London will also be there to direct you to free support available for your business.HUSTLE London Entrepreneur Networking Event at Mint Leaf (14th April at 5:00pm): whether you’re starting a business, a side hustle, or looking for funding opportunities, HUSTLE’s free event is the perfect place to meet future mentors, partners, investors, and more. Smart dress required. For over 25s only.MAIN London – AI and Automation Networking event at The Moniker (16th April at 6:00pm): whether you’re a tech startup or interested in how AI technology can work for your business, this free event offers the opportunity to grow your network and discover the latest trends in the AI and automation space.Start Up Greenwich Coffee Mornings 2026 at Woolwich Centre Library (29th April at 10:30am): a free coffee morning held every last Wednesday of the month, bringing together local entrepreneurs to meet, share ideas, tackle business challenges, and build meaningful relationships. Free business events in Newcastle this monthSlice into Spring Networking at Twenty Twenty Bar (1st April at 5:00pm): a fun and social networking event with an Easter theme, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow founders and join engaging conversations over a slice of pizza.NatWest Accelerator Doors Open Day: Motivation Monday at The Lumen, Floor 4 (6th April at 9:30am): if you need a little motivation to kick off your week, this weekly event offers a relaxed and energising space for like-minded entrepreneurs to connect, share their weekly goals, and co-work in a supportive environment. Paul Hughes, Growth Hub Connector, is also on hand for one-to-one support sessions.NatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at The Lumen, Floor 4 (7th April at 9:30am): offering “moments filled with great people and great vibes”, this monthly meet up is a chance to connect, exchange ideas, and collaborate through interactive brainstorming sessions over complimentary Nespresso coffee.PLATFORM at Crowne Plaza Newcastle (17th April at 9:00am): brings local entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners to network, exchange ideas, and find growth opportunities. Includes elevator pitches and fireside chats, with tea, coffee and light refreshments provided.HUSTLE Newcastle Entrepreneur Networking Event at All Bar One (30th April at 5:00pm): an event that goes beyond ordinary networking, creating a space where entrepreneurs can connect, explore investment opportunities, and find early-stage customers and business partners. Free business events in Leeds this monthWomen’s Investor Network: Coffee, Connection, & Collaboration Meetup at Galleria (14th April at 11:00am): this free event creates a welcoming space for female entrepreneurs, freelancers, and startups to connect, swap ideas, celebrate successes, and support each other in a relaxed and pitch-free environment.Get Connected | Leeds at Clockwise Leeds (16th April at 10:00am): a welcoming B2B networking event for Leeds-based businesses and those in surrounding areas, offering a relaxed space for genuine conversations and real connections.Casual business networking at The Greenhouse Horsforth (17th April at 9:00am): a relaxed morning event offering “low-key networking” for freelancers and businesses in North Leeds – the perfect space to meet, chat, and form new connections.Breakfast Networking Event at Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa (23rd April at 8:30am): a free event full of connection and conversation, bringing together entrepreneurs and like-minded professionals for networking and the chance to win a prize giveaway.. Tea, coffee, juice and breakfast rolls are provided.HUSTLE Leeds Entrepreneur Networking Event at Manahatta Greek Street (23rd April at 5:00pm): advertising itself as “Leeds’s most action-orientated networking for ambitious founders and entrepreneurs”, HUSTLE is all about meeting valuable connections, including angel investors, business partners, or pilot customers for your product or service. Smart dress required. For over 25s only.marketingSHOWCASE Leeds at New Dock (28th April at 10:00am): promoted as a “day packed with inspiration, innovation and practical advice”, the marketingSHOWCASE is a great opportunity to network and connect with leading marketing suppliers, industry experts, and professionals from some of the UK’s most recognisable brands.Leeds Entrepreneur Social Networking at The Decanter (28th April at 5:00pm): designed for startup founders, tech entrepreneurs, and digital product builders, the Leeds Entrepreneur Social Networking (ESN) is all about real conversations, sharing experiences, pressure-testing ideas, and making connections that can turn into partnerships or growth opportunities. Free business events in Sheffield this monthSheffield – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at Triple Point Brewery + Bar (9th April at 6:00pm): a relaxed and pitch-free gathering where local entrepreneurs can network, exchange ideas, and get insights into how to get involved in local sustainability.Better Business Breakfast | Sheffield at Food Works Sharrow (14th April at 9:00am): a breakfast event hosted by the Better Business Network (BBN) for social enterprises and purpose-led businesses, featuring both speed and casual networking with free coffee and croissants provided.Entrepreneurs Circle – Business Networking at Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria (16th April at 6:00pm): this free business growth event is ideal for entrepreneurs and startups looking to connect with others, plus gain practical marketing strategies to attract more customers and grow sales.Startup Social: Sheffield at Hideaway (30th April at 7:00pm): Startup Social is a monthly meetup open to founders and entrepreneurs from all backgrounds, offering a relaxed space to share ideas and discover potential collaborations with no pitches or panels involved. Free business events in Manchester this monthCybersecurity Workshop & Networking Social at GM Digital Security Hub (1st April at 10:00am): cybersecurity is essential for protecting your business, but if it isn’t your strong suit, this free event is a great chance to learn about how to safeguard yourself from common threats. Also includes networking opportunities with other business owners and like-minded people.NeuroNetwork MCR Business Networking April at Manchester Central Library (1st April at 1:00pm): this inclusive event offers a supportive environment for local Neurodivergent entrepreneurs to come together and share ideas, as well as navigate the challenges of business together.Morning Mixer at NatWest Accelerator Manchester Hub (7th April at 9:30am): a monthly event for founders and entrepreneurs to connect, find new ideas, and collaborate during engaging group sessions – all with free Nespresso coffee included.Smiley Happy People: Networking For Inspirational Business Owners (April) at The Con Club (14th April at 9:30am): as the name might imply, this isn’t a stuffy or formal business event. Instead, expect informal networking, along with table discussions and inspirational talks from a guest speaker.Better Business Breakfast | Manchester at X+Why Manchester (16th April at 9:00am): a breakfast gathering for social entrepreneurs, mixing structured speed networking with informal conversations, with a host on hand to guide introductions. Coffee and croissants are provided. Social Event: Accelerator Community Social at NatWest Accelerator Manchester Hub (16th April at 4:00pm): this monthly free event brings together local entrepreneurs to recharge, reflect, and connect through interactive activities like Founder Roulette and Walk & Talk. Complimentary refreshments are provided.April Meet Up: Manchester Black Business Networking at Impossible (16th April at 6:30pm): an “intimate, community-driven gathering” for Black entrepreneurs, founders and creatives, where attendees can connect with fellow founders, as well as professionals and investors across multiple industries, community organisations, and more. Includes guided introductions and spotlight moments, with drinks and light refreshments provided.SPLASH Enterprise Network at Flourish Hub (24th April at 10:00am): made for social enterprises and purpose-led businesses, this free event brings together local organisations focused on supporting community growth and development. Free business events in Liverpool this monthThe pop-up office and social meetup at Novotel Paddington (2nd April at 9:30am): this “pop up” office from Jelly Liverpool gives local founders the opportunity to refresh their workspace, improve productivity, and meet like-minded entrepreneurs in an open and supportive environment.Bold B2B Business Breakfast at Nova Scotia Liverpool (7th April at 9:00am): a morning event featuring inspiring guest speakers and plenty of networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals. Complimentary coffee is provided.Sakhi Hustle – Coworking Tuesdays at 92 Degree Coffee (7th April at 11:00am): a free coworking space held every Tuesday, where business owners, sole traders, entrepreneurs and everything in between can find a new workspace and connect with each other. Free WiFi is included, and tea, coffee, and snacks are available to purchase.Liverpool Social Networking Evening at Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill (9th April at 5:00pm): an opportunity to meet and mingle with other professionals, whether you want to expand your network or learn more about certain industries. Open to both BITA members and non-members.South Liverpool Business Forum (venue to be confirmed) (16th April at 8:30am): hosted by the Liverpool City Council in collaboration with Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool Chamber and more, this free event is a good opportunity to engage with other professionals and build valuable connections. Also includes talks from successful businesses in the area and an interactive multi-sector panel.Free Coworking and Business Networking at Bean Coffee (23rd April at 9:00am): this event offered by Jelly Liverpool gives founders the opportunity to switch up their everyday workspace and meet fellow business owners in a relaxed setting. Free WiFi and desk space are provided.Linked Over Lattes at Thoughtfully Cafe (28th April at 5:00pm): held every last Thursday of the month, Linked Over Lattes brings female founders together for coffee, conversation, and insights from professionals, international students, and people making a difference. Please note that while general admission is free, £3.96 is required if you want a drink included. Free business events in Birmingham this monthMorning Mixer at 2 St Philip’s Place (7th April at 9:30am): calling itself “more than just coffee and a catch-up”, NatWest Accelerator’s free event gives founders and business leaders the chance to connect and recharge over complimentary Nespresso coffee, along with activities like Founder Roulette, Walk & Talk, and Breakfast & Brainstorm.Brummies Networking – Free Business Networking at Grosvenor Casino Broad St (14th April at 12:00pm): a welcoming and informal meetup, where local entrepreneurs and business owners can come together for authentic conversations – free of pitches or formalities. Tea and coffee are provided.FindaBiz New Venue at Kings Arms Sutton Coldfield (14th April at 6:00pm): offers open and transparent networking in a relaxed setting, complete with free refreshments, a networking tip, 60-second intros, and member spotlights. Launch Pad: Networking for Birmingham businesses at Library of Birmingham (15th April at 5:00pm): an evening that brings professionals together for valuable connections, inspiring industry discussions, and engaging conversations. Guest speakers and interactive sessions included.The Midlands Expo at Birmingham City Football Club (16th April at 10:00am): the longest and largest business exhibition since 2012, where founders and professionals from all backgrounds can connect with 30 contacts in 30 minutes through speed networking and meet 80+ exhibitors. Also includes four free interactive workshops, 10 entrepreneurial speakers, and funding and investment opportunities.Christian Business Networking at Acacia Family Support (21st April at 9:45am): made for Christian founders, this free and open event promises an inspiring morning where attendees can connect with others, explore new opportunities, and support each other in the challenges and opportunities of the business world. Includes group prayers and a guest speaker on their experiences running a business as a Christian.Coworking & Networking Day at Assay Studios (29th April at 9:00am): TCN hosts a day every month for entrepreneurs and freelancers to work, network, and collaborate with each other in the stylish Assay Studios, with free coffee and pastries provided. Free business events in Nottingham this monthNottingham – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at The Angel Microbrewery (7th April at 6:00pm): offering a pitch and Powerpoint-free meet up, this free event lets founders discover sustainable business practices while building meaningful connections.Tech Business Meetup – Drinks and Networking at Laceworks Bar (15th April at 6:00pm): open to tech professionals and businesses at all stages, this free event by Nottingham Tech Network is the chance to build, grow and expand your network over a couple of drinks.Women in Business Networking Coffee Morning at Brewhouse & Kitchen (22nd April at 10:00am): a friendly and informal gathering for self-employed women building a business. No selling or pitches involved, and not suitable for multilevel marketing (MLM) or network marketing businesses. Free business events in Cambridge this monthCambridge – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at Salisbury Arms (2nd April at 6:00pm): this free event invites business owners to learn about sustainability, share actionable tips, and connect with others in a relaxed and pitch-free setting.Mindstone Cambridge April AI Meetup at The Bradfield Centre (2nd April at 6:00pm): hosted by one of our Startups 100 for 2026 companies, Mindstone’s free event gives founders the opportunity to network with others, discover AI-driven projects and learn from top industry experts.Coworking With Purpose at PwC, St John’s Innovation Park (8th April at 9:30am): a free coworking day for businesses and solopreneurs, providing a supportive space to work, network, and collaborate with others. Free business events in Oxford this monthPeopleOps Oxford: Tea, Coffee, Pastries and Talks at Business and Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC) (2nd April at 10:00am): for growing businesses looking to hire new employees, PeopleOps Oxford is a free event with a focus on human resources (HR) and people operations. Expect plenty of networking opportunities and inspiring talks from guest speakers. And as the name suggests, tea, coffee, and pastries are provided.OxCyber Social Event – April 2026 at The Perch (9th April at 6:00pm): designed for cybersecurity professionals and businesses, offering opportunities for open networking and meaningful conversations – no formal agenda included.April – Women in Tech – Oxfordshire: Talks and Networking at Oxford Centre for Innovation (21st April at 6:00pm): a fantastic opportunity for female entrepreneurs or women in tech to grow their network, plus gain valuable insights from guest speakers, including pioneering AI solutions in drug discovery. Free business events in Bristol this monthCoffee Chat 4 Business at Sprockets Coffee (7th April at 7:30am): whether you’re just starting out or you’re already a seasoned entrepreneur, this free event provides a supportive space for local businesses and professionals to network, share challenges, and even find their next collaboration.Morning Mixer with Nespresso at NatWest Accelerator (7th April at 10:00am): ideal for local businesses, NatWest Accelerator’s free event combines networking with weekly goal sharing and interactive activities like Founder Roulette and Walk & Talk, with complimentary Nespresso coffee provided.South Glos Co-Working Club at Bristol and Bath Science Park (14th April at 10:00am): a flexible drop-in day where entrepreneurs and business owners can work in a new environment, meet fellow professionals, and receive one-to-one guidance from a Cool Ventures business mentor.Entrepreneurs Circle Local Meeting at Ruby Jeans The Parade Cafe & Restaurant (14th April at 6:30pm): this monthly gathering brings founders and entrepreneurs together to network, share ideas, and take away actionable marketing tips that they can apply to their own business.Bristol Coffee Morning at InSynch (16th April at 10:00am): offering a relaxed space for coffee and chat, where attendees can connect with other local businesses and get advice from the InSynch team on current marketing activities or new strategies. Includes free giveaways, with coffee and cake provided.Freelance Mum Netwalk South Bristol: Business Networking at Greville Smyth Park (21st April at 10:00am): made for parents in business, the Freelance Mum Netwalk is the chance to network, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships while enjoying an outdoor walk with the kids. Also being held in North Bristol on the 23rd.Meet up at Ye Shakespeare (23rd April at 12:00pm): this lunchtime networking event – led by Rhoda Bran and Duncan Russell of Miint Marketing – is a chance for local businesses to connect, collaborate, and add some energy to their day. Free business events in Cardiff this monthIn-Person Business Networking at The Maltings (7th April at 9:30am): open to businesses at every stage, this welcoming networking event brings entrepreneurs together to connect with a diverse group of professionals and expand their business circle.Cardiff – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at The Canopi (8th April at 5:30pm): a relaxed meetup bringing business owners together to discuss sustainability, share insights, and network with others in a welcoming and pitch-free setting.iungoworks Cardiff Business Networking at iungoworks (16th April at 5:30pm): for meaningful B2B networking, iungoworks’s breakfast event is ideal for those looking for business partners, leads, or to grow their professional circle.Cardiff Entrepreneur and Start Up Summit at Chapter Arts Center (20th April at 6:00pm): an informal and social meetup, where entrepreneurs can share experiences, challenges, and plans, plus potentially meet future collaborators and co-founders.CBL Cardiff Breakfast Meeting at The Coach & Horses Hotel & Restaurant (24th April at 7:30am): an event specifically for Christian business owners, this monthly breakfast meetup offers a space to connect, share insights, and discuss today’s business challenges. Tea and coffee are provided.The Welsh Business show Cardiff at Cardiff City Stadium (29th April at 10:00am): taking place at the iconic Cardiff City Stadium, the Welsh Business Show promises a day of networking, seminars, and opportunities to showcase your business – whether you’re new to the business world or already a seasoned professional. Please note that while general admission is free, £16.96 is required if you want breakfast included. Free business events in Edinburgh this monthUnfiltered Edinburgh at CodeBase Edinburgh (1st April at 8:30am): open to all businesses, Unfiltered Edinburgh is all about offering a relaxed and informal morning where startups and entrepreneurs can connect with people from across the tech ecosystem. You can also sign up for a “Spotlight”, where you share your business story in five minutes. Coffee is provided.Coffee Connections Edinburgh at The Alchemist (1st April at 9:30am): entrepreneurs of all experience levels – from first-time founders to established professionals – can connect at this popular event, with opportunities to find new customers, collaborations, partnerships, and peer support. Please note that tickets are only free for your first visit, or if you become an EC member.Local Business Networking at Liberton Golf Club (3rd April at 6:45am): it might start early, but this weekly event offers founders a valuable opportunity to build meaningful connections and gain support to help grow their business. ConnectED, Edinburgh Business Networking at Hotel Indigo (7th April at 8:30am): held every Tuesday, this weekly networking event brings founders together with a broad mix of entrepreneurs, consultants, SMEs, charities, agencies, and corporate professionals.Morning Mixer at Royal Bank Accelerator (7th April at 9:30am): invites founders and business leaders to “pause, connect, and recharge” with networking and interactive activities (like Founder Roulette and Walk & Talk). Complimentary Nespresso coffee included.Social Event: Accelerator Evening Social at Edinburgh Royal Bank Accelerator (16th April at 4:30pm): offers an “evening of connection, fun, and community”, where founders can relax, meet new people, and take part in interactive games and surprises. Light refreshments are provided.Edinburgh Business Show at Royal Highland Centre (30th April at 10:00am): from first-time founders to seasoned entrepreneurs, the Edinburgh Business show welcomes professionals from all backgrounds. Includes networking opportunities, eight seminars and workshops, and an exhibition of around 60 companies. Free business events in Glasgow this monthBusiness Networking in Glasgow at Nuffield Health Glasgow Central Fitness & Wellbeing Gym (1st April at 6:30am): while it’s an early start, this event provides entrepreneurs with meaningful networking opportunities. Also includes the chance for attendees to share goals and present their business in a 10-minute spotlight. Complimentary breakfast is provided.Social Event: Accelerator Evening Social at Accelerator Hub, 4th Floor (1st April at 4:00pm): an evening event bringing entrepreneurs and founders together for “connection, fun and community”, offering networking opportunities and interactive games, with light refreshments provided.Unfiltered Glasgow at Barclays Eagle Labs (2nd April at 9:00am): a weekly event open to all businesses, welcoming startups and entrepreneurs to connect across the tech ecosystem, with an optional five-minute “Spotlight” talk. Complimentary coffee is provided.8BN and Club Synergy Outdoor Networking at Doulton Fountain (The Peoples Palace) (3rd April at 10:30am): hosted by 8 Business Networking and Club Synergy, this monthly netwalk offers local business owners the chance to network while getting some fresh air. Dogs and children welcome.BNI Affinity Chapter at Salvation Army (7th April at 6:45am): another early start, but a good opportunity for founders looking to build their network and find opportunities through referrals. Includes open networking and a structured meeting where BNI members introduce their businesses.Morning Mixer with Nespresso at Accelerator Hub, 4th Floor (7th April at 10:00am): with a focus on genuine connections alongside a touch of fun, this morning mixer lets local entrepreneurs network over complimentary Nespresso coffee and participate in interactive activities (such as Founder Roulette and Walk & Talk).RBC Networking Meeting: Building Connections at Alea Casino (8th April at 11:00am): aimed at supporting the local business community, Revitalise Business Club is offering founders a free networking event, including 30-second intros and structured talk tables.Glasgow – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at Malones Irish Bar (9th April at 6:00pm): for businesses interested in sustainability, this free meetup offers the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and gain practical tips for sustainable business practices. No pitches or formalities required.8 Business Networking Coffee Morning APR at The Alchemist (15th April at 9:30am): known for its fun and friendly atmosphere, this free coffee morning is a great opportunity for Glasgow-based businesses to meet new contacts, build genuine relationships, and improve their networking skills. Please note that tickets are only free for your first visit, or if you become an 8BN member.Founders Live Glasgow at Barclays Eagle Labs (25th April at 6:00pm): calling itself the “ultimate entrepreneurial and pitch competition”, Founders Live is the place to be to network, pitch your business, and compete for $1m in cash savings or 100+ essential apps and services, as well as a spot in the Founders Live Prime Time regional qualifiers. If you want to pitch your business, please apply here. 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.