Connect, Collaborate, Create
Reading Business Network (RBN) is a network of all types and sizes of businesses across greater Reading and the Thames Valley area.
The group holds regular meetings, with expert speakers, business advice and intelligence sharing, and we have links to a broad selection of training and skills offers, latest local business news, and the wider regional recovery and growth agenda. There are also regular newsletters, B2B and B2C promotions and neighbourhood forums to encourage businesses to shop local.
In addition, RBN is developing a directory of local businesses in all sectors, but with a particular focus on supporting the local film and TV production industry in the Thames Valley.
Purpose & Objective
Reading Business Network (RBN) was formed by a group of ambitious business people who came together with Reading's Economy & Destination Agency (REDA) during the COVID-19 lockdown periods of 2020, with the goal of creating a framework for local “neighbourhood” economies and business recovery, shaped through a town-wide business network and local business communities.
Our goal is to build a network of businesses across greater Reading that do more business and win more contracts locally, are better-informed on local economic and policy agendas, and have a voice in discussion around policy and economic development in Reading.
Our Next Event
Wednesday 15th May, 5:30pm to 8:00pm at the Pentahotel Reading – sign up through Eventbrite.
Lights! Cameras! Business! Professional Services Into Reading's Screen Industry Supply Chain - this event is your chance to dive into the world of film production. Join us for an evening of networking, learning and exploring behind-the-scenes of the film industry. Click HERE to register.
Our Most Recent Event
Our Approach
Reading Business Network is co-ordinated by local business with the backing of REDA and aims to be the voice of local business, encouraging collaborative working, and building local economic strength and access to Reading stakeholders in all areas of influence.
Our primary activities and principles:
Working with businesses, business groups and other business networks, regardless of size or sector across the greater Reading area for mutual benefit and to give business a voice in growing back better the Reading economy.
Recognising that not all business models are the same and that we need to adapt and appeal to the differing needs and styles of business – from sole traders to traditional family businesses, to fast growing tech companies and global corporates.
Being open, inclusive and supportive of business people and entrepreneurs from all backgrounds regardless of age, gender, disability, race and sexual orientation, but who just want to run ‘better’ businesses – and encouraging champions to come forward.
Participating through our businesses to build back better the town and its neighbourhoods in a greener, more inclusive way and by engaging with our young people, preparing them for employment training and business.
Engaging with the public sector to do business and regrow the economy with the help of REDA as a joint venture.
Networking Events
Strategic Partners
News Room
Join The Family!
Membership of RBN is completely FREE and open to Reading businesses of all shapes and sizes.
Networking events are run monthly for all our members.