This one is different. An event designed to break down barriers, build trust, and help people connect authentically.

• Want to connect with local small biz owners, but not fond of “networking”?
• Dread the transactional feel of business card exchange events?
• Uncomfortable introducing yourself to strangers?
• Often find others dominating a conversation?
• Frustrated by not getting time with the one person you really wanted to talk to?

This is the event for you – a fun, fast, and fulfilling way to network.
Brought to you by the Cowork Frederick Foundation.

2026 Dates are set!
February 19 | May 21 | August 27 | November 12
(Registration opens 90 days prior to each event.)

NOTES:

• Because we’re intentional about connection, this event is limited to 20 people.
• This is a fundraiser, so tickets are non-refundable. You can reschedule with 2+ business days’ notice.
• Because empty seats impact others, please be sure to join us for your scheduled event.

Here’s how it works:

Preparation

It can be awkward to come in “cold”, so we help you prepare. Ahead of the event, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about yourself and your business. We use the info to make name tags and an “about you” page we post in our building ahead of the event.

When you arrive, you’ll be directed to a wall where the bios of everyone participating are posted. Learning about people ahead of the “speed dating” gives you a chance to formulate, ahead of time, questions you may want to ask.

First pass at conversations – ice breakers and speed dating

We do a quick ice-breaker to get things moving. Then, like speed dating, you’ll be paired up with another person for a one-on-one discussion. Then, you’ll shift to the next person. Unlike other events where you’re grouped with multiple people, here you get to meet each person individually.

You’ll have the chance to introduce yourself, share your expertise and goals, and learn about the talents and aspirations of others. The prep everyone did means the conversation, while brief, can go beyond the typical “who are you and what do you do?”

Second chance at conversations – happy hour social time

As if we hadn’t all had enough fun already, the event ends with a happy hour – the perfect opportunity to solidify the connections you made earlier in the evening. Grab a beer, soft drink, or glass of water (still or sparkling) and continue the conversations you started.

Follow up

To make follow-ups easy, after the event, we send an online version of the bios to everyone who participated.

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