85+ FREE networking events you need to know about in May 2026 With summer slowly on the way, it’s time to get out and connect with 89 free network events across the UK to grow your network this month. Written by Emily Clark Published on 16 April 2026 Our experts We are a team of writers, experimenters and researchers providing you with the best advice with zero bias or partiality. With the weather starting to warm up and British Summer Time (BST) well underway, May is the perfect time to get out of your usual workspace and start networking.From casual meetups to large-scale gatherings, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re looking to find new clients, new investment opportunities, or just want to expand your network with like-minded people.Whatever you’re after, we’ve gathered 89 free business and networking events you won’t want to miss out on this May. 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 (4th May at 10:30am): this free coffee morning offers a relaxed and welcoming space for entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas, and build relationships. Open to businesses at all stages. Also being held in Greenwich on the 27th.Morning Mixers at NatWest Accelerator Hub (5th May at 9:30am): a monthly meetup from NatWest Accelerator, where entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate, and enjoy complimentary Nespresso coffee alongside founder-focused activities.The business mission networking event at Caddi Club Wimbledon (5th May at 10:00am): a free event where you can grab a coffee and kickstart your day with great conversations and new connections. Meet other entrepreneurs and learn from an industry expert in a relaxed fireside chat with practical tips to take away. Business professional dress is required.Coworking Network Event at Dolphin Square (7th May at 5:30pm): a simple networking event with no schedule or rigid structure – just the opportunity to mingle, share ideas, and build your network in a welcoming setting.Brockley Ladies Who Latte at Parlez (8th May at 10:00am): held every second Friday of the month, this free event is all about connecting, inspiring, and supporting women in business. Includes introductions, open networking, and a Ladies Lucky Dip to spotlight your business. Also being held in Harrow on the 14th and Greenwich on the 22nd.Get Connected – Free Networking at Metro Bank Piccadilly (12th May at 10:00am): a “simple, relaxed, informal, social meet-up” that welcomes all businesses, where entrepreneurs can grow their business community in a relaxed environment with no elevator pitches involved.HUSTLE London Entrepreneur Networking Event at Mint Leaf London (12th May at 5:00pm): HUSTLE’s free event is the ideal place for those starting a business and looking for funding opportunities – offering a space to connect with mentors, business partners, investors, or just like-minded people. For over 25s only.Startup Networks Connect: London Founder & Entrepreneur Networking Event at Mint Leaf London (12th May at 7:00pm): promising an “epic evening of networking, business connections, and scaling talks”, this free event invites entrepreneurs of all backgrounds to meet fellow founders, share ideas, get feedback on your MVP, discover investor leads, and more. For over 25s only; smart wear is required.Pinner Women In Business at The Whittington (14th May at 10:30am): taking place on the second Thursday of each month, this relaxed networking event brings female entrepreneurs together to connect, chat openly about the challenges of business, and support each other. Babies and children are welcome.MAIN London – AI and Automation Networking event at The Moniker (21st May at 6:00pm): from tech startups to business owners interested in AI, this free event is your chance to connect, learn, and discover the latest trends shaping AI and automation. Free business events in Newcastle this monthBUSINESS NETWORKING HOLYSTONE at The Blue Bell (5th May at 8:30am): this free event offers an “afternoon of networking and collaboration”, where local founders can connect with each other over coffee, share ideas, and expand their business circle.NatWest Accelerator Morning Mixer at The Lumen, Floor 4 (5th May at 9:30am): made for great people and great energy, this monthly meetup offers the opportunity for founders to connect, exchange ideas, and collaborate through engaging brainstorming sessions. Includes complimentary Nespresso coffee.marketingSHOWCASE Newcastle at St James’ Park (12th May at 10:00am): promising “a day packed with inspiration, innovation, and practical advice”, the marketingSHOWCASE is a great opportunity to connect with leading marketing suppliers, learn from industry experts, and network with professionals from some of the UK’s most recognisable brands.Speed Networking at Dobson and Parnell (14th May at 9:00am): it’s like speed dating, but for businesses. A chance to meet a series of contacts, delivering a two-minute pitch before moving on at the sound of the hooter – giving you a fast-paced way to make connections. Tea and coffee are provided.DevHub North – May at One Strawberry Lane (14th May at 5:30pm): a free event open to tech startups, professionals, or entrepreneurs interested in technology. Includes open networking and talks from industry experts, as well as pizza and beer.NatWest Accelerator Doors Open Day: Motivation Monday at The Lumen, Floor 4 (18th May at 9:30am): kickstart your week with NatWest Accelerator’s energising meetup, where like-minded entrepreneurs come together to connect, set goals, and co-work in a supportive space. Paul Hughes, Growth Hub Connector, will also be on hand for one-to-one business support sessions.Newcastle First – Business Networking at Tiny Tiny (19th May at 9:30am): whether you’re looking to grow your network or find a business partner, Newcastle First’s free event offers relaxed and informal gatherings to meet fellow entrepreneurs, share ideas, and find new opportunities for collaboration.PLATFORM (Newcastle) at Crowne Plaza Newcastle (22nd May at 9:00am): join local entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners for an event focused on making connections, sharing ideas, and discovering new opportunities. Includes elevator pitches, fireside chats, and complimentary refreshments.Final Fridays Networking at Twenty Twenty Bar (29th May at 2:00pm): Final Fridays is a monthly networking event for business owners, senior managers, and decision-makers to build long-term professional relationships. No pitches or hard selling involved. Free business events in Leeds this monthCasual business networking at The Greenhouse Horsforth (1st May at 9:00am): a laid-back morning get-together in North Leeds for freelancers and businesses to enjoy some “lowkey networking”, meet new people, and find new connections in a relaxed setting. Leeds – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at The Brew Society (7th May at 6:00pm): an opportunity for local business owners to connect with each other and learn how they can get involved with sustainability.Women’s Investor Network: Coffee, Connection, & Collaboration Meetup at Galleria (12th May at 11:00am): join a relaxed and pitch-free event where female entrepreneurs, freelancers, and startups can connect, share ideas, celebrate successes, and support each other in the business world.Get Connected | Leeds at Clockwise Leeds (21st May at 10:00am): a friendly B2B networking event bringing together businesses in Leeds and the surrounding areas – offering a relaxed setting for real conversations and valuable connections.Startup Networks Hustle: Leeds Founder & Entrepreneur Networking at Manahatta Greek Street (23rd May at 5:00pm): as with its London counterpart, this free event offers an evening of networking, business connections, and useful insights – bringing together entrepreneurs of all backgrounds to meet like-minded people, exchange ideas, and explore investment opportunities. For over 25s only; smart wear is required.Leeds Entrepreneur Social Networking at The Decanter (26th May at 5:00pm): brings together startup founders, tech entrepreneurs, and digital product builders for real conversations, experience sharing, idea testing, and meaningful connections that can lead to partnerships and growth. Free business events in Sheffield this monthSheffield Young Professionals at The Pearl at Park Hill (7th May at 5:30pm): an informal social networking event for young entrepreneurs and businesses of all backgrounds, offering the chance to connect with fellow professionals over drinks.Better Business Breakfast | Sheffield x Hannah Cox at Food Works Sharrow (12th may at 9:00am): join the Better Business Network (BBN) for a breakfast event bringing together social enterprises and purpose-led businesses, with BBN’s founder Hannah Cox making a special appearance for this month’s event. Includes both speed and relaxed networking, plus free coffee and croissants.Sheffield – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at Triple Point Brewery + Bar (14th May at 6:00pm): a free event with no pitches or formalities, where entrepreneurs can network, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities to get involved in local sustainability initiatives.Crookes and Crosspool Business Networking Event at Crookes Social Club (19th may at 6:00pm): a place for local business owners to come together for an “evening of networking, insights, and collaboration”. A great opportunity to connect with like-minded people and learn from industry professionals, with complimentary food and drink provided.Entrepreneurs Circle – Business Networking Meeting at Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria (21st May at 6:00pm): a free business growth event for entrepreneurs and startups to connect with others and learn practical marketing strategies to help attract customers and boost sales.The Butterfly Effect Business Club – Women’s Netwalking Event at Rother Valley Country Park (22nd May at 9:30am): advertising itself as “fun and empowering netwalking”, this exclusive event for female founders is a great chance to connect with like-minded women in business while enjoying a leisurely walk around nature.Startup Social: Sheffield at Hideaway (28th May at 7:00pm): Startup Social is a monthly gathering for founders and entrepreneurs of all backgrounds to connect, share ideas, and discover potential collaborations in a relaxed and pitch-free space. Free business events in Manchester this monthMorning Mixer at NatWest Accelerator Manchester Hub (5th May at 9:30am): join this monthly event for founders and entrepreneurs to connect, explore new ideas, and collaborate in engaging group sessions – all with complimentary Nespresso coffee provided.NeuroNetwork MCR Business Networking May at Manchester Central Library (6th May at 1:00pm): a supportive and inclusive event for local Neurodivergent entrepreneurs to meet up, share ideas, and navigate the challenges of business together.Alex & His Sisters: Networking for Inspirational Women In Business (May) at The Con Club (12th May at 9:30am): a free meetup offering a supportive space for female founders to connect and share ideas. Also features an inspirational talk from a successful woman-led business. Better Business Breakfast | Manchester at X+Why Manchester (14th May at 9:00am): a breakfast meet-up for social entrepreneurs, featuring a mix of speed networking and informal conversations, with coffee and croissants provided.Social Event: Accelerator Community Social at NatWest Accelerator Manchester Hub (14th May at 4:00pm): a monthly free event for local entrepreneurs to recharge, reflect, and connect through interactive activities like Founder Roulette and Walk & Talk. Complimentary refreshments are provided.Manchester DM #11 – Digital Marketing Event at WPP Manchester (14th May at 5:45pm): as the name suggests, this event is about all things digital marketing. With plenty of opportunities to network with professional marketers and industry experts, it’s a great opportunity to get valuable insights into marketing for business, with free pizza provided.What’s your F*** Up? meet up at Foundry Project Manchester (14th May at 6:00pm): making mistakes is simply part of the business journey, and this free event offers ecommerce businesses the chance to share and learn about costly mistakes. Hear stories from fellow entrepreneurs, ecommerce managers, or developers about mistakes that cost major revenue or lost a client, plus network with others in a supportive and non-judgmental space.Mindstone Manchester May AI Meetup at Heron House (27th May at 5:00pm): led by Minstone – one of our shortlisters from the Startups 100 Index for 2026 – this free event brings founders together to connect, explore AI-driven projects, and learn from top industry experts.HUSTLE Manchester Entrepreneur Networking Event at BLVD Manchester (28th May at 6:00pm): a chance to connect with people that can help take businesses further – whether that be mentors, future employees, or advisors. For over 25s only. Free business events in Liverpool this monthBold B2B Business Breakfast at Nova Scotia Liverpool (5th May at 9:00am): a free event with inspiring guest speakers and plenty of networking opportunities for local entrepreneurs and professionals. Free coffee is provided. Sakhi Hustle – Coworking Tuesdays at 92 Degrees Coffee (5th May at 11:00am): a free Tuesday coworking space for business owners, sole traders, and entrepreneurs to work and connect. Free WiFi is included, with refreshments available to purchase.Relaxed Business Networking In Person at Botanico Woolton (6th May at 9:00am): describing itself as “informal, fun and pressure-free”, this free event gives local entrepreneurs the opportunity to talk with others about current challenges, celebrate wins, and gain new knowledge. Please note that this event is only free for your first time visit, or if you become a Relaxed Business Networking member.The pop-up office and social meetup at Novotel Paddington (7th May at 9:30am): a “pop up” office that gives local founders the opportunity to switch up their usual workspace, improvise productivity, and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs in an open and supportive environment.Liverpool – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at Love Lane Brewery (21st May at 5:30pm): with “no pitches, powerpoints or panels”, Small99’s free event is all about bringing local entrepreneurs and professionals together to discuss sustainability and how to get involved.Free Coworking and Business Networking at Bean Coffee (28th May at 9:00am): hosted by Jelly Liverpool, this event offers founders a chance to change their usual workspace and meet other business owners while working in a relaxed and collaborative setting. Free WiFi and desk space are provided.Linked Over Lattes at Thoughtfully Cafe (28th May at 5:00pm): taking place on the last Thursday of each month, Linked Over Lattes connects female founders over coffee, conversation, and insights from professionals, international students, and those 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 (5th May at 9:30am): more than just coffee and a catch-up, this free event brings founders and business leaders together to connect and recharge over complimentary Nespresso, with interactive activities like Founder Roulette, Walk & Talk, and Breakfast & Brainstorm.Social Circle May 2026 at Assay Studios (7th May at 18:00pm): for businesses struggling with social media marketing, the Social Circle is a great opportunity to connect with the latest social media innovators and learn about the newest trends. Includes a guest speaker.Launch Pad: Networking for Birmingham businesses at Library of Birmingham (20th May at 5:00pm): a good opportunity to spend an evening connecting with professionals and taking part in industry discussions. Also includes guest speakers and interactive sessions.Birmingham – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at The Good Intent (20th May at 6:00pm): a chance to connect with like-minded and sustainability-focused business owners in a pitch-free environment focused on practical insights and genuine conversations.Birmingham Business Networking Social at Barbara’s Bier Haus (21st May at 5:00pm): a free event promising good conversations, where entrepreneurs can make new connections without the formalities. Also includes a complimentary raffle.Coworking & Networking Day at Assay Studios (27th May at 9:00am): TCN hosts a monthly coworking day at Assay Studios, where entrepreneurs and freelancers can work, network, and collaborate in a stylish setting. Free coffee is provided. Free business events in Nottingham this monthAV a walk – Networking for female founders at Wollaton Park (1st May at 9:30am): understanding the loneliness and isolation of being a founder, this free netwalk offers the chance to meet other female business owners to share stories and ideas while taking in the scenery from Wollaton Park.Nottingham – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at The Angel Microbrewery (5th May at 6:00pm): a free meetup for founders to connect and explore sustainable business practices, with no pitches or Powerpoints involved.Diversity in Tech at ONYX Insight (7th May at 5:00pm): a free event with a focus on how different voices make tech better, with plenty of networking opportunities for tech startups and professionals to connect with like-minded people.Meet Me at The Left Lion (21st May at 10:00am): with a focus on social media content and marketing, this informal netwalk is a chance to connect with others while enjoying a stroll around the city. Free business events in Cambridge this monthThe Common Thread – Monthly Networking Morning at University Arms (14th May at 10:00am): a relaxed monthly get-together with no structure or schedule – just a chance for local founders and professionals to come together and build genuine relationships in a welcoming space. Tea, coffee, pastries, and fruit are provided. Free business events in Oxford this monthOxCyber Social Event (OxTech Week) – May 2026 at Slug & Lettuce (28th May at 6:00pm): a free event for cybersecurity professionals and businesses to connect through open networking and meaningful connections with no formal agenda. Free business events in Bristol this monthCatalystHER Women’s Business Networking at Junction 3 Library (5th May at 6:30pm): with this month’s theme on sales, CatalystHER’s event offers networking opportunities plus a panel of experts sharing the best strategies for how they attracted their first-time clients.SETsquared Connect at Engine Shed (7th May at 6:00pm): a free event promising a “lively evening of networking and celebration of Bristol’s tech innovation scene”, where attendees can find new connections and exchange ideas. Includes pitches from new members and the Success of the Month award.Morning Meet-up at Runway East Bristol Bridge (8th May at 9:30am): a friendly group for local founders and freelancers to connect, share ideas, and find new inspiration. No pitches involved – just a welcoming space to meet fellow business owners.Freelance Mum Netwalk South Bristol: Business Networking at Greville Smyth Park (12th May at 10:00am): this free netwalk is designed for parents in business to connect, share ideas, and build meaningful relationships while enjoying the outdoors with their kids. Also being held in North Bristol on the 15th and Ashton Court on the 22nd.Morning Mixer with Nespresso at NatWest Accelerator (12th May at 10:00am): NatWest Accelerator’s free event brings together networking, weekly goal sharing, and interactive activities like Founder Roulette and Walk & Talk – all with complimentary Nespresso coffee included.Entrepreneurs Circle Local Meeting at Ruby Jeans The Parade Cafe & Restaurant (12th May at 6:30pm): a monthly gathering for founders and entrepreneurs to connect, exchange ideas, and leave with practical marketing tips they can apply to their own business.Bristol Business Expo at BAWA Conference Centre (14th May at 10:00am): set to be one of Bristol’s largest networking events, this free business expo is perfect for founders and entrepreneurs to connect with over 250 businesses, learn from the UK’s leading business speakers, and get free local business support.Wellbeing Netwalk for Small Business Owners at Ashton Court Courtyard Cafe (18th May at 10:15am): a chance for local founders, freelancers, and business owners to step out of their working space and enjoy the outdoors, while connecting with like-minded people. A great chance to network with others, while improving physical and mental wellbeing.Mindstone Bristol May AI Meetup at Origin Workspace (20th May at 6:00pm): Mindstone’s free event brings founders together to connect, discover AI-driven projects, and get valuable insights from top industry experts.Meet up at Ye Shakespeare (28th May at 12:00pm): led by Rhoda Bran and Duncan Russell of Miint Marketing, this lunchtime networking event brings local businesses together to connect, collaborate, and add a bit of energy to their day. Free business events in Cardiff this monthIn-Person Business Networking at The Maltings (5th May at 9:30am): a welcoming networking event for businesses at every stage, where entrepreneurs can come together to connect and expand their business circle.Stripe Cardiff Community meetup: Better Business Decisions at Tramshed Tech (6th May at 6:15pm): with a focus on making better business decisions, this free event welcomes entrepreneurs and founders of all backgrounds and stages to network, swap ideas, and get inspired in a relaxed and friendly environment.iungoworks Cardiff Business Networking at iungoworks (21st May at 5:30pm): designed for meaningful B2B networking, iungoworks’s breakfast event is ideal for those looking to find business partners, generate leads, or grow their professional network.CBL Cardiff Breakfast Meeting at The Coach & Horses Hotel & Restaurant (22nd May at 7:30am): designed for Christian business owners, this monthly breakfast meetup is a space to connect, share insights, and discuss today’s business challenges together. Tea and coffee are provided. Free business events in Edinburgh this monthLocal Business Networking at Liberton Golf Club (1st May at 6:45am): an early start, but a great chance for founders to build meaningful connections and access support to help grow their business. ConnectED, Edinburgh Business Networking at Hotel Indigo (5th May at 8:30am): a weekly Tuesday networking event that connects founders with a broad mix of entrepreneurs, consultants, SMEs, charities, agencies, and corporate professionals.Morning Mixer at Royal Bank Accelerator (5th May at 8:30am): inviting founders and business leaders to “pause, connect, and recharge”, this event combines networking with interactive activities like Founder Roulette and Walk & Talk. Complimentary Nespresso coffee is provided.Unfiltered Edinburgh at CodeBase Edinburgh (6th May at 8:30am): this free event is open to all businesses and offers a relaxed morning for startups and entrepreneurs to connect with the wider tech ecosystem. Also includes a “Spotlight” for attendees to share their business stories in five minutes. Coffee is provided.Coffee Connections Edinburgh at The Alchemist (6th May at 9:30am): from first-time founders to experienced entrepreneurs, this popular event brings people together to connect, find new customers, explore collaborations, and build meaningful partnerships and peer support.She Scales at Royal Bank Accelerator (12th May at 9:30am): a monthly networking and coworking day for female founders to share experiences, exchange insights, and build community in a friendly environment.Social Event: Accelerator Evening Social at Royal Bank Accelerator (14th May at 4:30pm): an “evening of connection, fun, and community”, this free event gives founders the chance to meet new people and take part in interactive games and surprises. Light refreshments are provided. Free business events in Glasgow this month8BN and Club Synergy Outdoor Networking at Doulton Fountain (The Peoples Palace) (1st May at 10:30am): a monthly netwalk hosted by 8 Business Networking and Club Synergy, giving local business owners the chance to network outdoors and enjoy some fresh air. Dogs and children are welcome.Relaxed Networking at Salvation Army (5th May at 6:45am): taking place every Tuesday, this simple networking event is ideal for founders and business owners looking to grow their network and find new opportunities through referrals.Morning Mixer with Nespresso at Accelerator Hub, 4th Floor (5th May at 10:00am): offering genuine connections with a touch of fun, this morning mixer brings local entrepreneurs together to network over complimentary Nespresso coffee and enjoy interactive activities like Founder Roulette and Walk & Talk.Business Networking in Glasgow at Nuffield Health Glasgow Central Fitness & Wellbeing Gym (6th May at 6:30am): an early start, but a valuable one – offering networking opportunities, plus the chance to share goals and deliver a 10-minute business spotlight. Complimentary breakfast is provided.Unfiltered Glasgow at Barclays Eagle Labs (7th May at 9:00am): Unfiltered Glasgow welcomes startups and entrepreneurs to connect across the tech ecosystem, with an optional five-minute “Spotlight” talk. Complimentary coffee is provided.Glasgow – Small99’s People, Planet, Pint™: Sustainability Meetup at Malones Irish Bar (14th May at 6:00pm): a free meetup for sustainability-focused businesses to connect, share ideas, and gain practical tips for sustainable business practices – no pitches or formalities needed.8 Business Networking Coffee Morning MAY at The Alchemist (20th May at 9:30am): with a fun and friendly atmosphere, this free coffee morning gives Glasgow-based businesses the chance to meet new contacts, build genuine relationships, and improve networking skills. Please note that tickets are only free for your first visit, or if you become an 8BN member.8 Business Networking Evening Meeting MAY at Malmaison Glasgow (28th May at 5:30pm): a chance to get a taste of “the most well known Glasgow business events around”, with opportunities to network and collaborate with fellow entrepreneurs to grow your business circle. Please note that tickets are only free for your first visit, or if you become an 8BN member. 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.