Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about joining and visiting the Small Business Society.
What is the Small Business Society?
The Small Business Society is a referral-based business networking group for Twin Cities small business owners. Started in 2020, it is made up of 20 local professionals — one per profession — who commit to passing each other referrals, building trust, and learning from one another.
Where and when does the Small Business Society meet?
We meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at 2042 Wooddale Dr, Suite 240, Woodbury, MN 55125, in the offices of Craig Huerta Insurance Agency – American Family Insurance. Meetings keep to a strict one-hour limit.
How much does it cost to join?
Membership is just $50 per year, far less than most networking groups. Dues go toward the group's website and member social events. New members who join between July 1 and December 31 pay a prorated $25 for their first year.
Can I visit as a guest?
Yes. Guests are very welcome at any meeting on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. Visitors may attend two meetings with no obligation. Anyone who wants to keep attending after that goes through our onboarding process to join.
How do I become a member?
Visit a meeting, then complete three steps: sign a document confirming you have read and agree to our bylaws; pay your annual dues within the next two scheduled meetings; and present yourself and your business to the group at your first meeting after being accepted.
What is a referral-based networking group?
A referral-based networking group is a small, committed group of business owners who actively pass qualified leads and introductions to one another rather than simply exchanging business cards. Because each member is known and trusted by the group, a referral from a member carries real weight with the person being referred.
Why does the group allow only one business per profession?
One member per profession means members never compete with each other, so everyone can confidently refer clients to the member in that field. It also gives each member a clear place in the group as the trusted go-to for their profession.
How is the Small Business Society different from BNI or other networking groups?
We share the goal of growing businesses through referrals, but we keep costs to $50 per year and meet only twice a month for one hour. Members of other one-profession-per-chapter networking groups, such as BNI or Master Networks, are not eligible to join because that would create a conflict of interest.
What kinds of businesses are members?
Current members include professionals in Auto Glass Repair & Replacement, commercial banking, digital marketing, drone photography & thermal imaging, electrician, excavating & blacktop paving, family & criminal law attorney, financial advisor, home inspector, insurance agent, junk removal, mobile & wireless solutions, mortgage lender, painter & home upgrades, real estate broker, roofing, siding & exteriors contractor, tile installation & remodeling, vending services, water & fire damage restoration, web & graphic design. Browse the member directory to see who is in the group.
Can I attend meetings virtually?
Members may attend in person or by Zoom, and may send a representative from outside the group to represent their business. Contact us to ask about guest options.
What are the attendance expectations?
Consistent attendance builds the trust that makes referrals work. Members let the leadership team know in advance if they cannot attend, and after two missed meetings the leadership team reviews the membership.
How do I contact the Small Business Society?
Email smallbizsocietymn@gmail.com. We try to follow up within two business days.
For the full details of how the group operates, read our bylaws.