There is a well-established adage that people do business with people they trust and like. Networking is a perfect way to develop long-lasting, trusted connections and establish a strong reputation within the business community. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit, 78% of start-up founders say that networking is an integral factor in business success.
The Chamber offers numerous ways for members to build trusted professional relationships in the Region, in an array of industries, including healthcare, finance, communications, and technology. We create programs on critical industry and Regional topics that include the ability of attendees to interact with each other. The Chamber prioritizes creating an environment at our events that makes participants feel comfortable and welcome. Including personalized nametags, administering virtual breakout rooms, and meticulously arranging seating—keeping every small detail in mind. A few of the events we offer and how networking at these will help you and your business include:
C-Suite Roundtables: The Chamber's C-Suite Roundtables are exclusive events for executive-level members to engage on pressing topics including AI, Regional economic trends, educational initiatives, and workforce challenges, among many others. With insider knowledge from high-level professionals, attendees gain an informed viewpoint on Regional issues they can take into meetings with customers. Our next C-Suite will take place on May 21st. Details will be released soon.
DEI Connects: DEI Connects is an inclusive and collaborative community of members who seek to share, learn, and implement best practices in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This monthly, expert-led discussion, held on the third Tuesday of the month, is open to all Chamber members at no charge. Our next virtual DEI Connects event will be held on April 16th. See details here.
Greater Washington Apprenticeship Network (GWAN): On the first Tuesday of every month, employers in the public and private sectors, non-profits focused on the workforce, and academic institutions gather to discuss best practices they can bring to their workplace for “earn and learn” models of workforce recruitment and retention. Prominent guest speakers address access to prospective apprentice candidates, support services, and training support. Attendees can connect with one another to advance their knowledge of this workforce recruitment tool as well as hear from other experts. Our next virtual GWAN event will be held on May 7th. See details here.
Speed Networking: A purely networking-based event, Speed Networking is a fun, and exciting way to connect with fellow members. Participants are given a short amount of time between sessions to advocate for themselves and their business, allowing them to perfect their 30 second pitch. Held at the Chamber every month, participants give rave reviews, making it one of the most popular events within our membership. Our next Speed Networking event will be held on June 18th. See details here.
Young Professionals Meet Up: Geared towards our younger workforce, the Chamber hosts meetups that give our young business professionals a chance to mingle and connect. A range of activities, snacks, and refreshments are provided. Our most recent event on February 27th, welcomed the surrounding colleges in the Region to pitch their continuing education opportunities, with special offers. Our next Young Professionals Meet Up event will be held on May 7th. Details will be released soon.
To learn more about upcoming events, you can find the full 2024 calendar of Chamber events here.
