Networking

At the heart of the Chamber’s “Community. Connection. Collaboration.” mantra is the work we do to bring people together in meaningful, face-to-face settings. People naturally choose to do business with those they know, like, and trust. These connections help expand your visibility, build partnerships, and open doors to new customers and referrals.

In today’s post‑COVID, technology‑driven, work‑from‑home world, it has become harder to meet the people who can become your customers, collaborators, and support system. Our events are welcoming for both new and established businesses, introverts and extroverts alike. By showing up and building relationships, you are also investing in the future of the Reading and North Reading business community.

We offer dozens of in‑person business networking opportunities each year, connecting you with like‑minded professionals in Reading and North Reading, as well as other nearby cities and towns north of Boston. From morning coffees and after‑hours mixers to industry roundtables and community events, there are options for every schedule and comfort level. From morning coffees and after‑hours mixers to industry roundtables and community events, there are options for every schedule and comfort level.

Morning Networking at our Coffee Connections

These low-key events take place at a local business and typically draw 10-20 people. You don’t need to be a ‘natural networker’ to benefit. Our events are designed to make introductions easier and help you connect at your own pace. These hour-long meetings are a place where you can feel at ease.

Attendees often find that the hour has flown by but still feel like they had real conversations with several people. They also find themselves approaching the rest of the day with new energy that comes from making real human connections.

Our member companies are the host of these events that generally include coffee and light morning snacks. Contact us if you would like to host one at your business.

After Hours Networking

Taking place right at the end of the workday, these evening events are typically held at a local restaurant or hosting business with some simple snacks for tasting while connecting with other local business professionals. We often will partner with other nearby Chambers to bring together a diverse group to meet. Typically there is a cash bar, but business hosts will often provide the beverages. Contact us if you would like to host one at your company.

Multi-Chamber Networking

The Reading-North Reading is part of a loose consortium of 14 local Chambers from Waltham to Wakefield. Each month a different Chamber hosts a large networking gathering in their region that draws anywhere from 50-200 people. These are always a way to meet new people from a wider audience.

Ribbon Cutting Celebrations

When a new company opens or celebrates a grand reopening or renovation, the Chamber is there to help them with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. These are always a fun way to meet people in a festive atmosphere. The hosts typically include an open house with food and beverages. These happen at different times during the day and occasionally on weekends if getting to a weekday is difficult for your schedule.

Education Sessions

We offer different business-related education sessions throughout the year. Recent topics covered include Marketing Your Business, Cybersecurity, Understanding AI, and government resources for new (and existing) businesses. Meeting people who have the same questions you do can make you feel like you are not alone in your business challenges.

Many of our most engaged members first joined the Chamber because of our networking events. They saw them as a practical way to invest in their future and the future of the local business community. Visit our Calendar Page to see our upcoming events or subscribe to our newsletter to have the latest updates sent to your inbox.