3 women sat around the table

Business events are one of the best places to get your business noticed. Networking is a very popular and effective method when it comes to meeting people who might require your services. Networking also facilitates a space where like-minded people can meet, and ideas are generated.  So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best business events you can attend throughout Devon.

South West Business Expo 2019

When is it? Wed, Nov 20, 9:30am
Where is it?
Westpoint Arena, Exeter
How Much is it? Free

Starting the list off with what claims to be the largest business expo in the South West of England, the South West Business Expo returns in 2019. It has completed numerous successful events so far, with this November 2019 being its 8th iteration.

This expo is free to attend and packed with things to do on the day. Over 260 businesses will be present, and over 3000 delegates ready to mingle with. There are also 22 workshops and seminars present this year, along with three speed networking sessions to encourage meeting, and also a business zone.

SWB Connections Business lunch

When is it? Held Monthly
Where is it?
Various locations in the South West
How Much is it? Tickets cost between £25 – £40 dependent on location

The business lunch is held every month in different venues around the region. The event is organised by SWB Connections (organisers of the South West Business Expo) is much more informal and organic, as it’s designed for open networking throughout the day. Your ticket price includes a two-course hot lunch and a complimentary glass of wine.

What’s special about this event is that there is always an eclectic mix of businesses around the table, so you have a good chance of learning something new and having some interesting conversations.

Men sat around on bean bags and their laptops

The Nudge Festival, Exeter

When is it? Fri, Oct 18, 09:00 – 18:00 
Where is it? Exeter Castle
How Much is it? Early bird tickets are £149, Standard tickets are £195 and VIP tickets are £295 – Please note, these do not include VAT.

This year will be the 10th anniversary of the Nudge festival, Exeter. Boasting a modern approach to business networking and marketing, Nudge festival is set in a castle, with wine and gin tasting throughout the event. The meetings and talks themselves will be spread over 3 different rooms with 14 keynotes and around 40 masterclasses!

Business@breakfast

When is it? Mon, Oct 16, 7:00 am – 8:30 am
Where is it?
Venues change but are always in Exeter/Devon
How Much is it?
£10 members, £15 non- members

The business breakfast is slightly different to other networking events. This is held fortnightly and is also non-profit. Business@Breakfast was put together to create a space where local businesses can support each other and help each other grow.  You can book your place by emailing joinus@businessatbreakfast.co.uk.

Another interesting point for this event is that while the breakfast is open to all varieties of business, with membership, they only allow one type of a specific business or profession in any branch, to avoid internal competition.

Bideford Business Expo 2019 | BBxpo

When is it? Thu, Oct 24 10:00 – 15:00
Where is it?  Devon Hall, Bideford College, Bideford, EX39 3AR
How Much is it? Free

Bideford Business Expo is an Enterprise day, with a free networking buffet.
The day is designed for enabling businesses to meet other businesses and create new contracts, showcase your products and your business to others, and a place where you can find advice and support for your North Devon business.
We’d also suggest checking out the regular calendar of events hosted by the FSB South West! Ranging from networking events to talks and workshops, these events can add some real value into your career and allow you to connect with interesting and like minded business people.

people sat around a desk

We hope that you have seen an event that you would like to attend in our list of upcoming networking events. We wholeheartedly encourage supporting local businesses, and as a local business ourselves, we always look to partner with local businesses and suppliers. Whether you are going to be exhibiting at one of these events, or just looking to attend, why not get some great materials printed? At Brightsea, we offer printing in Exeter and will make your materials look great!