September 12, 2024
Building a robust business network is key to your startup thriving in today’s business environment. A well-developed network — connections with professionals and organizations — opens doors to valuable partnerships, industry insights, funding opportunities, and more to boost your business.
Here are five ways to establish and grow your network:
1. Join local business organizations
Join your local chamber of commerce to access networking opportunities, resources for business growth, and events to connect you with other professionals.
Identify industry-specific organizations to connect with like-minded professionals and stay informed on market trends. Organizations such as BioHive, Silicon Slopes, Women Tech Council, 47G Utah Aerospace and Defense, and others offer tailored resources and access to industry influencers to help expand your reach.
2. Attend networking events
Utah is home to numerous business expos and conferences including the One Utah Summit and Silicon Slopes Summit where attendees network while gaining professional development.
Smaller meetups and workshops focus on connecting entrepreneurs face-to-face. Entrepreneur networking events like 1 Million Cups allow you to hear from other startups and share your expertise.
3. Leverage incubators and accelerators
Utah’s business incubators and accelerators — such as RevRoad, Kinect Capital, or iHub — support early-stage companies with mentorship, resources, and networking to help startups rapidly grow and succeed. Joining a business incubator or accelerator allows you to rub shoulders with other entrepreneurs while building beneficial skills.
4. Find local mentors
Successful business mentors provide startups with valuable guidance and insights from real-world experience, helping them navigate challenges and avoid common pitfalls. Seasoned leaders can offer strategic advice, introduce key connections, and provide support to accelerate your company’s growth and increase its chances of long-term success.
5. Connect with new talent
Engage with Utah’s emerging entrepreneur space by connecting with young talent through volunteering as a guest speaker at startup events or mentor at business incubators, university career centers, and public networking events. Building relationships with fresh talent can provide valuable insights into innovative and emerging markets and an opportunity to tap into the latest education and skills.
Through strategic networking, community involvement, and relationship-building, you can strengthen your business network and take your business to the next level.Go to startup.utah.gov/resources to find more resources to grow your network.
The information in this article is current as of the publishing date and is intended for informational purposes only. This article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal, tax, or business advice. Any resources and organizations mentioned, unless an entity of or a partner of the state of Utah, are not formally endorsed by the Startup State Initiative or state of Utah.