Connect, Create, and Collaborate at The Network Incubator
Updated: Sep 29
When I started Your Path Coaching and Consulting, I hardly knew any business owners in Richmond. Before this, I worked a corporate job that had me traveling along the East Coast. The only business owners I knew were a few old classmates and some franchisees from my previous company. To grow my brand and find clients, I realized I needed to network. I searched online for networking events in Richmond, and that’s how I found the Network Incubator (TNI).
Back then, TNI met on the first Thursday of each month at the Retail Shift Lab at VCU. The group’s founder, Ayanna McMullen, made a strong impression on me. She greeted everyone and seemed to know most people personally. As a professional organizer, she clearly showed her skills by explaining TNI’s purpose and encouraging business owners to talk about their challenges and share ideas for growing their businesses.
Things to know about The Network Incubator
If you have never attended a TNI event, here are some things you should know
Start time: TNI begins at 9:00 a.m. Try to get there by 8:45 so you can grab a free coffee. My favorite is the Honey Lavender Latte.
Location: The meetings are held at the Capital One Cafe in Carytown. You can park on the street or use the parking lot for Capital One Cafe visitors.
Structure: When you arrive, you’ll check in, and you have an opportunity to network with other attendees.
Topics Discussed: After a quick review of the ground rules, everyone splits into four groups based on common business challenges.
Group sharing: Near the end, everyone comes back together. One person from each table shares the ideas your group discussed.
The Value of Community Connections
I’ve met many great people and found helpful resources at TNI events. Here are the top five benefits I’ve gained from attending.
I met someone from the Shenandoah Community Capital Collective who helped me land a paid workshop with their organization.
I learned about groups like the Metropolitan Business League and BlckStreet, which I joined and have since led workshops and presentations for.
I’ve met people who became clients or referred new clients to me.
I’ve discovered new technology and resources that have made me more efficient and productive.
I’ve met great people that I enjoy spending time with.
If you want to connect, create, and collaborate, I encourage you to join the 750+ businesses that have attended a TNI event in the past seven years. To learn more or sign up, visit their website.
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