Where can you find supportive networks and communities for small business owners?

As a small business owner, you know how challenging and rewarding it can be to run your own venture. But you also know that you can't do it alone. You need support, advice, feedback, and inspiration from other people who understand your goals and struggles. That's why finding supportive networks and communities for small business owners is crucial for your success and well-being. In this article, we'll share some tips on where and how you can connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and benefit from their experience and insights.

Key takeaways from this article

Leverage online platforms:

Utilize resources like Facebook groups and LinkedIn to connect with other entrepreneurs. Engaging in these communities allows you to gain insights, share experiences, and expand your professional network.### *Attend local events:Platforms such as Meetup and Eventbrite can help you find relevant networking events and workshops. Participating in these gatherings provides opportunities to meet potential partners, clients, and mentors who can support your business growth.

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1 Online platforms

Exploring online platforms is a great way for small business owners to find supportive networks and communities. Social media, blogs, podcasts, forums, newsletters, webinars, and online courses are all excellent resources for learning from experts, peers, and mentors, as well as sharing your own knowledge and stories. For example, Facebook groups such as The Female Entrepreneur Association, The Small Business Forum, or The Small Business Revolution can be joined to gain insight into relevant topics. LinkedIn is a great platform for building professional networks and showcasing skills and achievements. Podcasts like The Side Hustle Show, The Small Business Big Marketing Show, or The Smart Passive Income Podcast can provide valuable advice and inspiration. And online courses on Udemy, Skillshare, or Coursera can teach new skills and strategies to help grow your small business.

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Sharon Strange

Franchise Consultant 🚀 Empowering Aspiring Entrepreneurs in how to Find a Franchise Right for Them 🎙️ Co-Host of the "Franchise Together" Podcast
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In my experience, there are a number of places to look for online groups. Social media tends to have lots of groups. Linked In, Alignable, Facebook, etc., all can be used like a search engine to find groups for what you desire. Linked In also has some great Audio and Video rooms to learn new things or take master classes.

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2 Local events and organizations

Small business owners can find supportive networks and communities by attending local events and joining organizations that offer networking, learning, and collaboration. Platforms like Meetup, Eventbrite, or Chamber of Commerce can help you find the right events and organizations. Networking events, such as BNI meetings, Startup Weekend, or Speed Networking, are great for meeting potential partners, clients, suppliers, or investors. Workshops and seminars hosted by experts, coaches, or consultants can help your skillset, knowledge base, or mindset; SCORE workshops, Small Business Development Center seminars, or Women's Business Center workshops are all great options. Co-working spaces and incubators such as WeWork, Impact Hub, or Techstars provide a shared workspace and resources with mentorship opportunities.

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Parag Shah

GIFTS-IN-SHAPES (GINS) Manufacturing & business deals.
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In most cases "What to do is either advocated or described ". But " how to do/accomplish is most of the time paid versions". In my opinion these are always good suggestions.

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Louise Brogan

B2B Video & Content Marketing: done for you 👏 Podcaster & YouTube 📽 Small Business Champion 🏆 Speaker 🎙
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Ask at local council or government funded programmes for small business if they host any events or can introduce you to some other small biz owners. If there's nothing in your area, consider organising g a local coffee morning in an independent coffee shop and let friends know in case they have small biz owners in their own network.

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3 Peer groups and masterminds

For small business owners looking for supportive networks and communities, forming or joining peer groups and masterminds is a great option. Platforms like Alignable, MastermindJam, or Meetup can help you find the right group for you. Peer groups are based on industry, niche, or location, and offer a great opportunity to share best practices, feedback, and referrals. Masterminds are based on income level, experience, or ambition, and provide a platform to set goals, brainstorm solutions, and hold each other accountable.

Finding supportive networks and communities can make a huge difference in the journey of an entrepreneur. You can gain access to valuable information, resources, and connections that can help you grow your business and overcome challenges. You will also find inspiration, motivation, and friendship which can help you balance your work and life as a small business owner. Don't hesitate to reach out and connect with others who share your passion and vision!

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4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Where can you find supportive networks and communities for small business owners?

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2

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1 Online platforms

2 Local events and organizations

3 Peer groups and masterminds

4 Here’s what else to consider

Small Business

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Where can you find supportive networks and communities for small business owners?

1

2

3

4

1 Online platforms

2 Local events and organizations

3 Peer groups and masterminds

4 Here’s what else to consider

Small Business

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