GHBNG Greater Hartford Business Networking Group

Network
over drinks.

Greater Hartford business owners and community leaders who want to help each other succeed. Once a month at a local establishment.

Business, and everything else

Business is part of the conversation, but it’s not the only reason people come. Build real relationships, exchange ideas, make introductions, and help each other navigate the challenges of business — and life. Talk about work, kids, stress, or whatever’s on your mind.

How it works

  1. Come as you are

    Most people come straight from work: polo, business casual, or work boots.

  2. Grab a drink, find a seat

    Informal and casual. Talk to whoever’s next to you.

  3. Help each other grow

    Personally and professionally, our members look out for one another. While we’re here to help each other professionally, GHBNG’s focus is getting to know each other as individuals.

Who’s at the table

We’re always looking for more industries to join.

  • Trades and contracting
  • Insurance
  • Real estate
  • Legal
  • Accounting
  • Marketing
  • Management
    consulting
  • Finance
  • Restaurants
  • Your industry?

Coming for the first time?

  • Tell us what you do when you register.

    We’ll point you to the right person when you walk in.

  • Don’t know anybody? Say so.

    Plenty of the room is new too. Sit down and you’re in the conversation.

  • Don’t try to work the whole room.

    Two or three real conversations beat twenty business cards.

  • Bring somebody.

    That’s how this grows. Register for both of you so we set the room right.

Join us Sep 23

Wed 11:30 AM–1:00 PM, Urban Lodge Brewing Co., Manchester

A few business owners from the Hartford area started this over drinks about four years ago to help each other out. Even though the group has grown, it’s still run the same way.

Every event is backed by a few local sponsors and the brewery hosting it. They get thanked by name in the room.

Questions first? contact@ghbng.com — someone can meet you at the door and show you around.

Questions people ask

Is this a referral group?

Not formally. No quotas, and nobody tracks referrals or attendance. Work comes out of it because people get to know each other.

Do I have to give a pitch?

No. There’s a quick welcome at the start, and that’s the only time anyone holds the floor. People will ask what you do.

Do I have to drink?

No. Drink whatever you want, or nothing. The conversation is the point.

How many people come?

It used to be six to ten. The group grew, and now it’s 40-plus. It works the same way it always did: you talk to a few people and actually get to know them.

What actually gets talked about?

Business, and everything else. What’s going on in the market, problems people are working through, who’s hiring, who’s looking for a good vendor. Also kids, stress, navigating life, or whatever’s on your mind.

What if I don’t know anybody?

Say so and we’ll make introductions. Nobody knew anybody at the start, and plenty of the room is new right now. Email ahead if you’d rather not walk in cold.

What if I can only make it now and then?

Some people make every one, some make four a year. Both are fine. You won’t be starting over.

Can’t make it?

We’ll send you the next date.