Email to a FriendThe power of women's networking
Twenty years ago, in 2005, the Women in Business Network (WIBN) opened its doors with a bold vision, to create a space where women in business could connect, collaborate and truly thrive.
What started as a small but passionate community has grown into one of the UK’s most respected and supportive women’s networking organisations, touching the lives of thousands of women over the years.
From the very beginning, WIBN’s ethos was clear. It wasn’t about pitching to one another or competing for attention.
Instead, it was about developing genuine, long-term relationships built on the “Know, Like and Trust” principle. It was, and still is, a place where women can confidently share their business, knowing they will be heard, supported and valued.
Structured networking that really WORKS!
The structure of a WIBN meeting has remained consistent over the years and for good reason.
Women appreciate a clear, well-paced format where everyone gets their moment to speak. Rather than fighting to get a word in or feeling they’re being sold to, members know they will have their turn in their Monthly Minute.
Members can showcase their business in the Spotlight Session, where their business is centre stage. It’s their opportunity to share their story, explain what they do and help others understand how to refer opportunities their way.
Meetings also include a Business Topic segment, where members can share their expertise and learn something new from each other.
This is followed by Let’s Talk Business, where every member and visitor get the chance to speak about another woman in the room, celebrating her work, building stronger relationships and reinforcing the trust that sits at the heart of WIBN.
Over 100 groups around the UK
Today, WIBN proudly supports over 1,000 members and has welcomed thousands more visitors over the years. The network has grown to 21 franchisees across the UK, and over 100 groups with even more groups in the pipeline, each carrying forward the same supportive, collaborative ethos that has been its hallmark since day one.
As WIBN has grown, so too has its membership offering. Members now have access to free training sessions, including Monthly Minute, Networking Strategy and Spotlight Masterclasses, helping them make the most of their networking time. There are also free monthly Let’s Talk online sessions, giving members the chance to speed network across the whole network and build connections far beyond their local group.
Our offering continues to grow
Recognising the power of industry specific collaboration, Women In was launched.
Allowing members to connect with others in their industry to share ideas and support one another, while still maintaining WIBN’s one-profession-per-group exclusivity in local meetings.
For those whose location isn’t a factor in their business, our National Online meetings offer the opportunity to connect with WIBN members from anywhere.
Professional and personal connections
Beyond formal meetings, WIBN members also enjoy social events and supportive WhatsApp groups, ensuring no one is ever alone in their business journey.
The result is a strong, vibrant network where women can grow their confidence, expand their connections and achieve success in a way that feels natural and empowering.
As WIBN celebrates its 20th anniversary, it’s not only a time to reflect on the journey so far but also to celebrate the incredible women who have been part of it.
Their collective energy, commitment and support has shaped WIBN into what it is today, a place where women in business are not just networking, but building genuine relationships that last a lifetime.
What's next?
As we look ahead to the next 20 years, one thing is certain: WIBN will continue to champion women in business, providing a trusted space to connect, collaborate and succeed together, because when women support women, incredible things happen.
Created by Caroline Sidney Payne, our operations and marketing manager.