Katherine has an entrepreneurial spirit and has had a few other businesses. It was through networking for these that she saw a gap in the market for networking groups that are very friendly, fun and relaxed yet structured offering members a real opportunity to make more connections in a safe and supportive environment. With a very busy Facebook group for all members there are numerous opportunities to seek help, support and advice on every part of your business with other members who understand your challenges and help celebrate your successes. 

Originally POP Connect only offered all women groups but now the majority of our groups are mixed, welcoming men and women who are running their own small business, self- employed or working for a local business.

After a quick introductory round at the start of each meeting, there is a ten minute presentation from a member followed by each member or guest having 70 seconds to promote their business to the larger group. There is then a second ten minute presentation followed by a round concentrating on connections/recommenations or referrals for other attendees. All members have the opportunity to give a 10 minute presentation annually. There is a buffet lunch at the end of the meeting when attendees can mingle and chat. Uniquely, POP Connect also offers double membership to anyone wishing to promote more than one business or two strands of a business.  

Our network has grown rapidly thanks to the supportive and collaborative nature of every group and POP as a whole – Currently halfway through 2020 we have 24 groups, in three counties and more than 280 members. The majority of groups provide mixed networking for men and women and we do also have some all women groups including the founding group in Dunmow. All groups are for people of all ages who are running their own businesses, self-employed or working for a local business. Visitors may attend twice without or before joining as long as the space is still available.