We all know that the internet is a huge place, which can seem decidedly intimidating when thinking about business opportunities. Beyond the vortex that is LinkedIn, there is a plentiful array of sites to keep you plugged into the startup scene. Here are our top six:

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS


As the tag line reads, 'Where London entrepreneurs meet', this offering from the Evening Standard hosts exclusive events where members can listen to and learn from high profile speakers such as Charlie Mullins of Pimlico Plumbers, Michelle Mone and more, the opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs of SMEs, all served alongside useful content on the website. There is also a forum for Q&As and a members’ directory that allows you to search through company profiles of Business Connections members.

INTERN AVENUE


We spoke to founder Dupsy Abiola just recently, and if you're starting out this is a brilliant resource to give graduates a head start. It's slick, quick and really gets to the heart of what employers are searching for.

VIRGIN STARTUP


This is one of the leading resources and competitions for the budding entrepreneur where the contacts made will be useful and plentiful. Of you're a seasoned pro it's also worth looking into getting involved as a mentor / judge. The contacts made can be sure to push you through the final glass ceiling.

FIND NETWORKING EVENTS


What if there were a place online where you could scan all the networking events in the capital across a multitude of industries? Well there is - it's a simple incredibly useful tool for targeting people IRL (in real life).

ENTERPRISE NATION


Enterprise Nation was founded in 2005 by Emma Jones MBE. Its mission is to create ‘an inspirational environment for business owners and would-be entrepreneurs, a supportive community'. That includes business how to's, endless events and a strong focus on small businesses with networking opportunities aplenty. Read our full in depth brains with Emma here and find her favourite apps here (LINK).

EVERYWOMAN


Everywoman is the UK's leading provider of training, resources and support services for women who mean business. Working to increase the number of women in the UK as well as their economy and status, it offers guidance, support and resources, solutions to help businesses attract and retain female talent and training for corporate workers who want to become innovative, successful leaders - there's an incredible amount of networking opportunities in the mix.

January 2016