Next Level Connect

What to Expect

Every month, we’ll feature a business owner that helps everyone truly get to know the person behind the business. Together, we’ll explore why they started their business, share insight about their work or industry, learn what local resources make their business successful and how we, as a community, can support them now.

The meeting sponsor is a local business owner who will have dedicated space to showcase their business, share their products/services and have an opportunity to connect one-to-one with attendees. 

Participants will have time to introduce themselves — whether that’s with a polished pitch or simply sharing your name and business — so connections can continue naturally before and after the meeting.

For anyone who wants to keep the conversation going, guests are invited to stay afterward for lunch at Tobacco Wood Brewing.  This patronage is our thank you for allowing us to use their space.

No pressure — just a casual way to deepen connections, swap stories and build relationships beyond the meeting.

Whether you’re a solopreneur, service provider or local business owner, Next Level Connect is for those who want to grow with support instead of doing it all alone.

Come as you are.
Leave with clarity, confidence and connections that matter.

📍 Location  Tobacco Wood Brewing, 2500 Meridian Parkway, Durham, NC
🗓 Frequency  Last Monday of the Month (except in May and December)

⏰ Time   10:00 - 11:30am, with the option to stay afterwards for lunch
🤝 Who it’s for  Small business owners seeking community, connection and growth

For those who need caffeine before mingling, visit Qamaria Coffee next door and grab coffee or tea to go!

2026 Next Level Connect Events

Kindly use the Eventbrite link below to RSVP.

Mon. Jan. 26, 10am Featured Guest:  Megan Pippitt, co-owner of Burn Boot Camp South Durham

Sponsor:  Tyrone Wilson, Covenant Creations Flowers

*Cancelled due to weather*

Mon. Feb. 23, 10am Featured Guest:  Sheila Amir, former owner of the Bulls of Durham

Sponsor:  Wes Platt, Southpoint Access Local News

Mon. March 30, 10am Featured Guest:  Monica Evans, Urban Durham Realty, discussing how growth affects small businesses.

Sponsor:  Tom Bloomer, Talk of the Town Direct Mail Publisher

Mon. April 27, 10am Featured Guest:  Ashleigh Ratchford, Ashleigh Bakes Daily

Sponsor:  Heather Wilson, Blue Heron Finance

RSVP Here

Mon. May 18, 5:30pm After Hours Small Business Open House with Sarah Mannone, Casa Bella Market, 3604 Witherspoon Blvd, Durham

More events will be added soon! Subscribe to my newsletter to get this info sent to your inbox!