About Colony Networking - Supporting Small Business Growth Since 2010
Colony Networking has over 12 years of experience hosting business networking events across the North West. We deliver relaxed yet structured sessions designed to maximise your experience and foster lasting professional relationships that lead to real business results.
Our mission is simple: create relaxed yet effective networking events where you can meet serious decision-makers, feel comfortable with the structure, and generate genuine business opportunities and referrals.
Our Story
In 1989, our founder Simon Edmondson attended his first networking meeting. An introduction from another attendee led him to his most significant client, and he immediately understood the power of professional networking.
Over the next two decades, Simon grew his business through referrals by consistently attending events and building lasting relationships. He later acquired an established networking group, which has since grown to more than 100 member businesses.
Colony Networking was born from Simon’s experience and a recognised need for businesses to collaborate effectively. We’ve refined our format over 12 years to give attendees optimal exposure and genuine connections, because we know from experience what works.
What Makes Colony Different
Relaxed Yet Structured
Every Colony meeting follows the same proven format, two hours split into four 30-minute sections:
Open networking
Introductions from the host
Educational seminar
Two guaranteed 1-2-1s
This structure creates a comfortable environment whether you’re new to networking or an experienced professional. The host handles introductions, so you can focus on making connections rather than worrying about presenting.
Genuine Flexibility
Attending is as flexible as you want it to be:
Membership Attend any Colony Networking meeting across the country at no cost with your Colony Networking Passport.
*Membership is monthly with no long-term contracts. Initial sign-on fee of £30 covers badges and administration.
Pay As You Go
Attend meetings when it suits you with no commitment required.
*Some additional special events may be chargeable at discounted member rates.
Welcoming to All
We don’t enforce lockouts* because we believe “People Buy People.” All seats are non-exclusive, we focus on building relationships rather than limiting who can attend.
Whether you’re a sole trader or part of a national organisation, you’ll find value at Colony Networking. Our diverse member sectors create better networking opportunities for everyone.
Accessibility If you have any mobility issues, please contact your host to discuss access arrangements.
What to Expect
at a Colony Event
When You Arrive
Complete your bio form, this helps your host introduce you during the meeting, so you don’t have to present to the group.
During Open Networking
Connect with a range of attendees. Use this time to decide who you’d like to meet in the one-to-one sessions later.
The 1-2-1 Sessions
Participants consistently tell us the guaranteed one-to-one meetings, and the follow-up meetings afterwards lead to new business opportunities and collaborations.
Our Community
Colony Networking welcomes sole traders through to national and international organisations. The wide variety of member sectors strengthens networking opportunities for everyone.
Members maximise their benefits by attending consistently and building connections with fellow participants. Beyond the meetings, you can stay connected through:
Member Directory
Find essential business services from our members
Active WhatsApp Group
Keep conversations going between meetings
We’re committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable environment. Diversity strengthens our community, enhances creativity, and drives meaningful collaboration.
What Our Members Say
Ready to Experience Colony?
We believe in trying before buying. Book yourself onto a local event and experience Colony Networking first-hand. You can attend on a pay-as-you-go basis before deciding to become a member.