We all know that the benefits of networking can be many, and we always mean to do more of it. However, the most common question that comes along with the hope of building business connections is this: Where do I start? Where do I go?
We have assembled a list of monthly networking meet-ups, one time networking events for your Fall calendar, and business groups to join to help open the door for opportunities in and around Charlotte. Happy networking!
Monthly Networking Meet Ups
CRG Matthews – Professional Networking Group
Meets every Tuesday morning from 8:00 – 9:30 AM
CRG Matthews provides the perfect opportunity for professionals to network, especially when it comes to small businesses in Matthews, Southeast Charlotte, and Union county. Visitors are always welcome, and you have up to three visits as a guest before deciding whether this professional group is a good fit for you. If you are visiting for the first time:
- Bring plenty of business cards
- First 15 minutes of the meeting you will enjoy open networking.
- You’ll get an opportunity to introduce yourself and your business.
Charlotte Early Risers Breakfast
Meets every Tuesday morning, 8:00 – 9:30 AM
This Charlotte localized group has been meeting for breakfast every Tuesday morning for 15 years, and they are always welcoming like-minded professionals to join. The Early Risers cover topics ranging from real estate to investment strategies over coffee and more.
Coffee and Conversation with Charlotte Business Group
Meets the First Friday of the Month, 8:00 – 9:30 AM
Every first Friday of the month, Charlotte Business Group members (and guests) come together to form new connections that aid in starting, growing, and maintaining local business relationships. Non-members are always welcome, however, space is limited so register before hand.
Women in Networking
Meets every Friday morning, 9:00 – 10:00 AM
With chapters all across North Carolina, Women in Networking strives to empower professional women and female entrepreneurs by offering opportunities for both professional growth and prosperity. The women of WIN meet virtually via Microsoft Teams; however, on the first and third Fridays of each month you can find them in person at TowneBank, Myers Park, on the second floor. Please register here, email Alice Joyce, or just drop in if you’d like.
Mind Money Motivation Meeting of the Mindset
Meets every 3rd Thursday, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Mind Money Motivation Group lives up to their name, as they promote networking of like-minded individuals to forge partnerships. These meetings are an opportunity to gain actionable knowledge, secure collaborations, and chart a course towards your business’s growth. Plus, go dressed in your business attire to receive professional business headshots. Ticket must be purchased in order to get on the list for headshots.
One Time Networking Events This Fall
Getting Confident with Your Content
Thursday, September 19th, 2024, 5:30 – 8:00 PM
If you are someone looking to gain some tips and strategy into the complex and ever-changing world of social media, this event at Lenny Boy Brewing Co. (3000 South Tryon St., Charlotte, NC) is for you. Jess Molo (founder of Piper Fox Social) will be sharing her expertise on all things content, social media, and confidence.
Good Friends Presents: On Tap for Young Professionals
Thursday, September 19th, 2024, 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Join Good Friends on September 19th for an on tap social aimed towards young professionals at @residentculture.southend. Enjoy your Good Friends, make new ones, and hear a quick impact update on Good Friends Charlotte. Feel free to bring a friend to join in on this fun and productive opportunity to network.
Networking with Charlotte Entrepreneurs
Tuesday, September 24th, 2024, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Say goodbye to superficial exchanges and hello to a community where every conversation can spark your next big idea or client. Head to Heist Brewery and Barrel Arts on September 24th for a drink, socializing, and the potential for deep, meaningful networking that transcends the usual.
Breakfast Club – Evening Addition
Thursday, September 26th, 2024, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Join South Charlotte Partners for an exciting evening addition of Breakfast Club, hosted at Old Mecklenburg Brew, Ballantyne. Network with locals and make meaningful connections, but hurry up and secure your tickets today – spots are filling up fast!
Women in Bizness Fall Networking Mixer
Sunday, September 29th, 2024, 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Connecting with other women in the business world may pose as challenge, but this event is your chance to mingle, make new connections, and grow your network with like-minded women. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and expand your business horizons.
Charlotte Career Fair
Wednesday, November 14th, 2024, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
This career fair is a recruitment event to connect with top employers in the areas of Government, Sales, Retail, Education, Information Technology, Engineering, Healthcare, Financial Services, Management, Manufacturing, Customer Service as well as other career paths. Professional Dress and an updated resume are strongly recommended. Register here.
Networking and Business Groups
The CHM Collective
Formerly known as Business Sorority, the CHM collective’s goal is to provide a progressive network of talent, skills, knowledge and resources that are accessible to all members to help each achieve their professional and/or personal objectives. Plus, enjoy a monthly luncheon with like-minded individuals. You will hear wonderful speakers and participate in effective networking with other businesswomen.
CREW Charlotte
CREW Charlotte was founded in 1990 and consists of a diverse group of professional women and men engaged in commercial real estate and related services industries. There are a wide range of disciplines represented within CREW Charlotte, including but not limited to, real estate brokers, attorneys, bankers and title industry professionals to engineers, developers, and architects. Apply here to become a member.
Junior League of Charlotte
The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. This diverse organization welcomes and celebrates women of all backgrounds, as each member brings a unique perspective to our organization and enriches our League. Members share a commitment to voluntarism and building a better community. To be notified of events or when the 2025-2026 applications open in February 2025, click here.
Charlotte Regional Business Alliance
The CLT Alliance Foundation is a group of entrepreneurial experts helping others grow their skills and confidence to grow their businesses and careers. Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or business leader, the CLT Alliance Foundation opens doors so you can build social capital, forge connections and access resources through a number of intentional programs and initiatives.
Women Executives
Women Executives (WE) is a diverse group of accomplished women who support and nurture each other’s personal and professional growth. WE provides a forum for professional interactions, sponsors programs for professional growth, and encourages its members to develop their leadership potential and serve the community. The goal of WE is to be an organization that is representative of leaders in the business, professional, educational and non-profit community of Charlotte. Membership in WE is by invitation only through a sponsored application process.
Other Networking Groups to Consider:
National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc.
National Association of Women Business Owners
