Why Join a Referral Networking Group?
How the Small Business Society works — and why Twin Cities business owners choose it.
The Small Business Society is a referral-based networking group for small business owners in the Twin Cities. We keep it simple: one member per profession, two one-hour meetings a month, and $50 a year. Members come to give and get real referrals from people they know and trust.
What makes us different
- Affordable. Membership is $50 per year. Dues pay for the website and member social events — not a franchise fee.
- One member per profession. You never compete with another member, and when someone needs your service, you are the referral.
- Respectful of your time. We meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month, 12:30–1:30 p.m., and hold to a strict one-hour meeting.
- Referrals built on trust. Members put each other's needs before their own, show up consistently, and hold each other accountable for passing referrals.
- Learning along the way. Members share what they know with each other, helping everyone grow professionally and personally.
- Local and independent. Started in 2020, the group is run by its own members and leadership team.
How to join
Visit a meeting
Guests are welcome on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. You can attend two meetings with no obligation. Plan your visit.
Sign the bylaws agreement
Confirm you have read and agree to abide by our bylaws.
Pay your annual dues
$50 per year, due within your next two scheduled meetings. Joining between July 1 and December 31 is a prorated $25 for the first year.
Introduce your business
At your first meeting after being accepted, present who you are, what you do, and who your ideal client is, so the group can help you grow.
Is it a good fit for you?
The group works best for business owners and professionals who are committed to attending, who enjoy building relationships, and who are ready to refer others as generously as they hope to be referred. Because we allow only one member per profession, check the member list to see if your profession is open. Members of other one-profession-per-chapter networking groups, such as BNI or Master Networks, are not eligible to join.
What members say
“The Small Business Society has really helped my business. The membership is always actively looking to refer deals to each other. Beyond referrals, the education that members provide is fantastic. We’re constantly learning about additional aspects that help professionally and personally.”
“I’ve been part of the Small Business Society for over six years, and it’s been a great experience. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, meet some wonderful people, and learn from other business owners across different industries. What I appreciate most is the willingness of everyone to share ideas, support one another, and create opportunities for each other’s businesses. It’s a great group of people, and I’m grateful to have been part of it for so many years!”