Northwest Arkansas is adding 40 new residents every day, putting the region on track to hit 1M people by 2050. With so many newcomers, the opportunities to build business connections are growing fast.
To help you navigate them, we’ve put together a guide to the top networking events happening around the area.
Business‑Focused Networking
Patio Social — The Patio Community transforms how locals connect in Northwest Arkansas by bringing people together for fun social events at locally owned bars and restaurants!
HIVE Networking — Connecting professionals through events, partnerships, and community.
NWA Networking – A local business networking company that highlights a variety of weekly and monthly meetups, referral events, and professional networking opportunities throughout NWA.
B Free Network — Free networking every Thursday at Big Whiskey in Bentonville at 12p.
Creative Referral Network — Meets at 9a on Friday’s at Jimmy’s Egg
1 Million Cups (Bentonville) – Free weekly entrepreneurial networking over coffee; local founders present their businesses and connect with the community.
BNI (Business Networking International) – Structured, paid membership networking with industry exclusivity and referral sharing.
Startup Junkie Foundation – Offers free and affordable networking events and workshops for entrepreneurs in Fayetteville and beyond.
Conexion de Negocios Latinos – Networking group aimed at Latino business owners and professionals in Springdale.
Groups By Industry & Interest
Women in Networking NWA – Monthly luncheons and networking events for women in the workforce across NWA.
CREW Northwest Arkansas – Professional network for women in commercial real estate.
NWABMBA (National Black MBA Association – NWA chapter) – Professional development and networking for Black professionals.
Power Girls in Real Estate — Women in real estate networking group.
Empty Next Social of NWA — For anyone in NWA who’s entered the “empty nest” stage of life and is ready to connect with new friends.
Young Professional & Leadership Groups
Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders – Connects local young professionals through leadership development and networking events; part of the Rogers Lowell Chamber.
NWA Young Professionals (NWAYP) – Nonprofit dedicated to networking, community investment, and professional development for young professionals.
Chamber Events
Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce – Both formal and informal business mixers and breakfasts.
Rogers‑Lowell Chamber – Monthly morning networking with local business owners.
Springdale Chamber of Commerce – Weekly chamber networking for Springdale professionals.
Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce — Serves businesses, innovators, and leaders shaping the future of the Bentonville Area.
Did we miss a networking group? Shoot me a note at [email protected] and we will add it to the guide!