Host a Mercury Business Network hub

Ever left a networking event thinking it could be done better? Well, here's your opportunity to do just that. We're always on the lookout for people to host one of our Mercury Business Network hubs. We want to help ambitious professionals build connections and grow their business so bringing Mercury Business Network across the nation is a big part of our plan.

This page is an overview of what's involved and the kind of people are ideal to host a Mercury Business Network hub. We'll also cover what support you'd get from us, and answer some of the questions we're asked most often.

How the Mercury Business Network format works

Mercury Business Network was founded by Dr Katherine Bean, who also runs DVANA, a sales and marketing consultancy. Katherine built Mercury on a simple belief: that networking should fuel real business growth. The format is structured, the conversations are genuine, and the focus stays firmly on helping members develop their businesses through trust and relationship-building.

Every hub is run according to the same structured format: a two-hour session that blends open conversation with purposeful discussion. Every session includes thoughtful introductions, focused talks, peer learning, shared challenges and dedicated one-to-one time. So, whenever a Mercury Business Network hub meets, members understand the format and know what to expect.

Since it began, Mercury has grown into a supportive community of consultants, creatives, tech startups, corporates and SMEs, all following the same simple principles: be prepared to properly network and offer real value. It's a format that works because everyone in the room commits to it. When you host a Mercury Business Network hub, you help members get the very best out of every single meeting.

Why we're expanding

We've always been selective about how the network grows. We don't list our meeting times publicly and we like to speak to prospective members first. Getting the right people in the room matters more than getting a lot of people in the room. The same principle applies to expansion: if you host a Mercury Business Network hub you follow a tried and tested process.

We know there are ambitious professionals in other areas who'd benefit from the same kind of structured, supportive networking that our founding hub has built. But a new Mercury hub only succeeds if it's led by the right person: someone who understands the format, believes in the values, and is genuinely invested in helping their local business community thrive.

The ideal Mercury Business Network Host

The ideal Mercury Business Network host has these four traits:

Natural connector

You often introduce people to each other without being asked. You spot a connection and act on it.

Locally credible

You already have a foothold in your business community, or the drive to build one quickly.

Reliable and organised

Running a hub means showing up, every time, with the same energy and structure. There's a certain amount of admin involved which you're able to carry out with maximum effect, minimum effort.

Aligned with our values

No ego, no hard-selling, no focus on personal gain. Just a genuine interest in helping others do well. If you think you could host a Mercury Business Network hub (or know someone that could) we'd like to hear from you (or them).

What we provide

Hosting a Mercury Business Network hub doesn't mean building something from scratch. We provide:

• The Mercury Business Network format, brand and reputation.
• Onboarding and guidance on how to run a session.
• A listing on our national website and directory.
• Ongoing support from the team.
• Access to our member platform for profiles, events and admin.

Interested in hosting a networking hub in your area?

If you think you could host a Mercury Business Network hub in your area, we'd love to hear from you.

FAQs: host a Mercury Business Network hub

Do I need previous network hosting experience?

No. What does matter is that you are a natural connector, are actively involved in business in your local area, are reliable and organised, and aligned with our values.

How much time does running a hub take?

Just enough time to organise and run a regular monthly session, stay in touch with members between meetings and encourage others to join.

How much does it cost to start a networking hub with Mercury, and what's the revenue model?

Each area is different, of course, but generally this will depend upon how many members and sponsors you manage to attract as Mercury Business Network host.

Can I run a hub alongside my own business?

Yes. Most of our members and hosts run their own businesses. In fact, it's often part of why they're good at networking.

What support do I get if my hub is struggling?

You're not on your own. The Mercury Business Network team stays in touch with hosts, and offers practical help when it's needed.

Is there an exclusive territory for each hub?

This is something we agree individually with each host, based on location and demand.

If something here isn't clear, or you have a question we haven't covered, please get in touch.