Business Networking Meetups and Founders Clubs

Paul: (https://twitter.com/paul_tirban)

It’s Paul.

Florin: (https://twitter.com/florin_muresan)

It’s Florin. What’s on the agenda today? Today, we’re delving into the types of events entrepreneurs should prioritize. We’ll start with business networking events and then explore founders clubs.

Paul:

Founders club? How do they differ from conferences?

Florin:

They’re actually quite distinct. Founders clubs stand apart not only from conferences but also from business meetups, drinkabouts, and similar gatherings.

Paul:

How would you describe them?

Florin:

How would I define a founder’s club? Simply put, it’s a club. Clearly, founders attend, but not just any founders—those actively starting or running startups, not mere consultants or service providers. Unlike general business networking meetups, founders clubs are exclusive gatherings where serious entrepreneurs can deeply engage with peers facing similar business challenges.

Paul:

So, not the events everyone attends just to pitch sales?

Florin:

Exactly. I wouldn’t invite even the excellent coffee providers from Square Mile to my founders club.

Paul:

Interesting. Should a Haltech founder only join a health tech-focused club?

Florin:

Not necessarily. Founders share common challenges and experiences, making business networking meetups a valuable resource for those in the startup phase.

Paul:

You seem to emphasize real founder experiences. Should one have years of experience to join?

Florin:

It depends on the club. Some may require multiple startups or successful exits as entry criteria.

Paul:

So, the value comes from being at similar stages?

Florin:

Yes, you gain the most from a founders club if members are at comparable levels. Otherwise, general business networking meetups or open events might be more suitable.

Paul:

If I’m convinced, should I Google ‘Healthtech Founder Club’?

Florin:

Ideally, you’d be invited. Effective networking often starts with personal connections made at business meetups.

Paul:

So, finding one through Google might be a red flag?

Florin:

Potentially, as it suggests the club markets itself broadly, which could dilute its value.

Paul:

Understood. These are usually more than just gatherings; they’re places of growth and support.

Florin:

Absolutely. I’ve started two founders clubs myself, benefiting greatly from the communal knowledge and support. These clubs provided a focused alternative to broader business networking meetups, allowing for deeper interaction and more targeted problem-solving among startup founders.

Paul:

How big should a club be?

Florin:

That depends, but smaller groups often facilitate more meaningful exchanges.

Paul:

And avoiding formal roles helps maintain focus on support and advice.

Florin:

Correct. The goal is to foster a collaborative environment where founders can share and solve challenges together.

Paul:

In closing, what’s the takeaway for someone wanting to join or start a founders club?

Florin:

Look for groups with shared values and expectations. Genuine connections, whether formed at business networking meetups or founders clubs, can significantly enhance both personal growth and business success.

Paul:

Fantastic advice. Remember, we’re here to share experiences, not to act as consultants or lawyers. Join the discussion on our Facebook or Twitter and let us know your thoughts on founders clubs or any business meetups you’ve attended.

Florin:

And if you’re considering joining one, share your concerns with us, and we can explore them in future discussions.

Paul:

And don’t forget, if you appreciate our insights, consider buying us a coffee!

Florin:

Absolutely, your support means a lot. See you next time!