Hosting Your Own Networking Event: A Charity’s Guide

At the Charity Hub, we regularly host networking events across South Yorkshire and have seen firsthand the power of collaboration within the third sector. But what if you want to take the next step and host your own? Whether you're looking to raise your charity's profile, find new partners, or simply connect with others doing great work, running your own networking event can be a game-changer.

Why Host a Networking Event?

Networking events are more than just a nice chat over coffee. They’re strategic tools to build stronger communities, uncover new funding opportunities, and develop partnerships that help stretch resources further. Hosting your own event puts your organisation at the centre of local change-making and positions you as a connector within your community.

Step-by-Step: Planning Your First Event

1. Define Your Purpose: Are you aiming to connect local charities? Share insights from a new project? Find potential corporate partners? Being clear on your objective will shape everything from your invite list to your event format.

2. Choose the Right Venue: Make sure your venue is accessible, welcoming, and has enough space for mingling and breakout conversations. Consider places like community halls, co-working spaces, or partner organisations with rooms to spare.

3. Set a Simple, Engaging Agenda: You don’t need to overcomplicate it. A brief welcome, a guest speaker or two, breakout sessions for networking, and a closing wrap-up work well. Interactive elements like roundtable discussions or speed networking can energise the room.

4. Promote with Purpose: Use your mailing list, social media, partner organisations, and local networks. Be clear about who the event is for and what attendees will gain. Don’t forget to register attendees in advance to help with planning.

5. Make It Welcoming: Have name tags, coffee brewing, and someone at the door with a smile. Set the tone early and encourage inclusivity, especially for those who might feel shy or new to networking.

Top Tips for Success

• Follow Up: Send a thank-you message with useful links, contact info, or notes from the session. This shows professionalism and helps build lasting connections.

• Ask for Feedback: It helps you improve and shows your attendees that their opinions matter.

• Build Momentum: If the event goes well, why not turn it into a quarterly or bi-annual meet-up?

By hosting your own networking event, you're not only creating space for connection, you’re making it easier for collaboration and progress to thrive.