Join us be a part of the vibrant community driving innovation and economic growth in the East Midlands.

The Startup Connections: Networking Series returns in 2026, bringing together Crucible participants, entrepreneurs, business leaders, mentors and members of the local business community.

This October, the series will take the form of a Speed Networking Breakfast. Through a series of short, focused conversations, attendees will have the opportunity to meet a wide range of people, make useful introductions and explore potential partnerships, ideas and sources of support.

The event will also feature Jenny Cross, entrepreneur, marketing strategist and business mentor, who will share practical insights into effective business networking.

Jenny has built, scaled and exited businesses, including the international asset sale of Niche Magazine and the Niche Business Awards. She founded and led Cross Productions, an award-winning marketing agency, and now co-runs Vantage Marketing Group, a consultancy specialising in strategic marketing, commercial value and practical AI capability.

She is also Pro-Chancellor at De Montfort University, an official Virgin Start Up mentor and business coach, and founder of The East Midlands Boardroom, a curated community for established founders and scale-up leaders.

Hosted by De Montfort University, the event is part of the DMU Crucible programme, which provides mentoring, training, funding and practical support for early-stage businesses.

The breakfast is open to business leaders, mentors and entrepreneurs looking to expand their networks, exchange experience and connect with emerging businesses across the region.

Questions or want to learn more?

Email businessservices@dmu.ac.uk

Please note, you must be a registered business to attend.

Description supplied by the event organiser.