Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey is a thrilling adventure, but navigating the intricacies of building your network can pose significant challenges for new business owners. Thankfully, a new study* has revealed the best cities and regions across the United Kingdom where budding entrepreneurs can successfully build connections.

The UK’s top cities for Networking

1. London
Unsurprisingly, London takes the lead as the top city for new entrepreneurs navigating HR challenges. With an impressive index score of 7.353 out of 10, the capital city witnessed over £78 million in business transactions through networking groups in the past year. London’s dynamic ecosystem serves as a powerhouse of innovation, providing new entrepreneurs with a robust foundation to foster business growth.

2. Glasgow
In the second spot is Glasgow, scoring a commendable 6.712. Scotland’s largest city saw over £205 million exchanged within its networking groups, offering new entrepreneurs a thriving environment to build connections and take their business to the next level.

3. Birmingham
Claiming the third position, Birmingham boasts a score of 6.524. With over 16 active networking groups and a transaction volume exceeding £19 million in the last year.

4. Chester
Chester is in the fourth spot, with a notable score of 6.182. This historic city has approximately 285 active networking members passing business to each other.

5. Manchester
Completing the top five is Manchester, securing a score of 5.679. Over the last year, networking groups in Manchester facilitated the exchange of over £31 million, highlighting the city’s significance as a dynamic landscape for new entrepreneurs keen on expanding their networks.

The UK’s top regions for networking

1. South East
Leading the regional charts, the South East boasts an impressive score of 6.203/

2. North West
In the second position is the North West, securing a score of 5.434. The region’s dynamic networking landscape provides new entrepreneurs with the ideal environment to build connections, share insights, and collaborate.

3. London
While London shines as an individual city, it also claims the third spot among regions. The vibrant networking culture of the capital city extends its influence across the broader London region, creating an extensive network for new entrepreneurs seeking growth.

4. West Midlands
The West Midlands emerges as a rising entrepreneurial hub, securing the fourth spot with a score of 4.949. With a growing number of networking groups and a collaborative spirit, this region offers new entrepreneurs a promising landscape for fostering business growth.

5. Scotland
Rounding off the top five regions is Scotland, with a score of 3.666.

*Study by Avid Panda