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Let us introduce you to the new networking platform helping local businesses connect

We caught up with North East entrepreneur, Jeni Smith, who launched NetKno to help connect the region’s business community

Written by Becky Hardy
Published 02.06.2021

After working in the networking industry for 15 years across the UK, local entrepreneur Jeni Smith decided to launch a new type of networking agency last April.

In that time her agency, NetKno, has gone from strength to strength, despite a global pandemic, and has seen Jeni delivering networking consultancy and training to clients including Sunderland Software City, RTC North, Newcastle University and Northern Accelerator.

Now, following a company rebrand, NetKno has launched a new strategic networking platform designed to empower North East businesses to network more efficiently and strategically – meet SaaS (software as a service).

 

Jeni created the unique networking ecosystem – which has already undergone two rounds of academic research with Durham University, and is what the new software platform is built upon – to help people source and select which networking events they attend.

‘We know networking is one of the most powerful tools at any business’ disposal, yet people’s approach to it is very rarely strategic,’ she told us. ‘The networking ecosystem I’ve created allows us to create bespoke strategies for businesses and individuals, so they can ensure they’re attending the right events, meeting the right people and having the right conversations to help them achieve their networking objectives and improve ROI.

‘Lockdown has highlighted the efficiency of networking online, yet we miss the connection that comes from in-person events. It’s time for us to be more selective about the events we attend and how we spend our time post-lockdown. The new platform empowers people to do just that.’

The platform is free for people to use, currently listing almost 200 networking opportunities available in the North East. Users can choose to upgrade and create an account, which will then make strategic recommendations on which events are the right fit for them.

With the gradual return of face-to-face networking, NetKno aims to support the region in rebuilding post-lockdown, by helping businesses connect through effective, strategic networking.

To find out more about how NetKno and SaaS can help you make the connections your business needs, visit their website, Facebook page or Instagram

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