For small businesses, success isn’t just about having a great product or service—it’s about building strong relationships. Networking for small business growth is one of the most effective ways to increase visibility, generate leads, and establish trust within the local community. Whether through in-person events, online connections, or professional coworking spaces like Burbity Workspaces in Spokane, the right network can open doors to new opportunities and long-term partnerships.
Why Do Small Businesses Network in Spokane?
Spokane has a thriving small business community; networking is crucial to growth and sustainability. Entrepreneurs and business owners connect to exchange ideas, gain referrals, and create strategic partnerships that drive sales and visibility.
- Building Local Connections – Spokane’s business ecosystem thrives on relationships, making networking essential for referrals and collaborations.
- Gaining Business Insights – Networking events provide access to expert advice, industry trends, and mentorship opportunities.
- Increasing Brand Awareness – Engaging with other professionals helps small businesses stay top-of-mind for potential customers and partners.
In a city known for its strong sense of community, small businesses that actively network gain an edge in both visibility and credibility.
Where is the Best Place for Small Businesses to Network in Spokane?
Spokane offers a variety of networking opportunities, from in-person events to online communities. Whether you're looking for industry connections, potential clients, or professional support, there are several key places where small business owners can build valuable relationships.
Top Places for Small Business Networking in Spokane:
- Greater Spokane Incorporated (GSI) – Spokane’s Chamber of Commerce hosts networking events, business roundtables, and growth-focused programs.
- Startup Spokane – A resource hub for entrepreneurs, offering meetups, educational sessions, and mentoring opportunities.
- Facebook Groups – A local online community where small business owners share resources, referrals, and opportunities.
- Spokane Professionals Society – An active group that connects young entrepreneurs and professionals through events and networking opportunities.
- Burbity Workspaces – A collaborative coworking space offering networking events, workshops, and a built-in community of professionals.
- Local Meetup Groups – Platforms like Meetup.com feature Spokane-based business and industry-specific networking events.
- Industry Conferences & Trade Shows – Events like the Spokane Small Business & Entrepreneurial Conference offer excellent opportunities for networking and growth. There are tons of likeminded folks who are willing to share their networking tips with you.
From coworking spaces like Burbity Workspaces to online groups, Spokane has numerous ways for small business owners to expand their networks and grow their businesses
Looking to Grow Your Small Business?
Burbity Workspaces has multiple locations with private offices, coworking spaces, event space, and meeting rooms.
How to Prepare for Your First Networking Event in Spokane
Attending your first networking small business event can be exciting and nerve-wracking. Proper preparation ensures you make a great impression, build meaningful connections, and get the most value from the experience.
Step 1: Research the Event
- Find out who will be attending and what industries will be represented.
- Look up key speakers, sponsors, or businesses you want to connect with.
Step 2: Set Clear Goals
- Determine what you want to achieve—whether it's finding potential clients, business partners, or learning from others.
- Prepare a few key questions to ask attendees to spark meaningful conversations.
Step 3: Perfect Your Elevator Pitch
- Create a brief introduction about who you are, what your business does, and how you help others.
- Keep it natural and adaptable to different conversations.
Step 4: Bring Business Cards & Marketing Materials
- Have plenty of business cards ready to hand out.
- If relevant, bring brochures or promotional items to leave a lasting impression.
Step 5: Dress Professionally & Comfortably
- Wear business-appropriate attire that aligns with your industry.
- Choose something comfortable that makes you feel confident.
Step 6: Be Open & Engage
- Approach conversations with curiosity—ask questions and actively listen.
- Don’t focus solely on selling; instead, build strong business relationships.
Step 7: Follow Up After the Event
- Connect with new contacts on LinkedIn or via email within a few days.
- Send a brief message thanking them for the conversation and suggesting ways to stay in touch.
Preparing ahead of time helps you feel more confident and ensures you get the most out of Spokane’s networking opportunities.
How Do I Follow Up from a Small Business Networking or Corporate Event?
Following up after a networking small business event can feel awkward, especially if you're unsure of the right approach. However, building relationships is the whole point of networking, and a well-timed follow-up can turn a brief conversation into a valuable connection.
Ways to Follow Up Effectively:
- Send a Personalized Email – Mention something specific from your conversation to show genuine interest. Keep it short and suggest a way to stay in touch.
- Connect on LinkedIn – Send a connection request with a quick message reminding them where you met.
- Engage on Social Media – Follow their business pages, comment on posts, or share relevant content to stay visible.
- Schedule a Coffee Meeting – If there's potential for collaboration, invite them for an informal chat to explore opportunities further.
- Offer Value – Share an article, resource, or introduction that might be helpful to them, positioning yourself as a valuable connection.
Following up doesn’t have to feel pushy—keeping it natural and authentic makes networking relationships more meaningful.
Strengthening Relationships Through Networking for Small Business Growth
Consistent follow-up is key to making networking efforts worthwhile. Small businesses thrive on strong relationships, so staying in touch beyond the initial meeting helps build trust and opens doors for future collaborations. Whether through a quick check-in, sharing industry insights, or supporting their business, nurturing connections over time turns casual contacts into long-term partners and clients. You need to network if you want to make your small business idea a reality.
