Business
29 Business Networking Sites You’ll Need to Grow Your Business
Published
13 years agoon
This article is reprinted from E.i. Geek with permission.
In case you’re growing bored of the “big three” social networks (Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn), take comfort in knowing that there are plenty of other networking sites that can help you and your business succeed.
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While the big three are indeed important, it’s sometimes more refreshing to enter uncharted territory and find fellow entrepreneurs, and even widen your prospect or audience net.
If you’re a freelancer or entrepreneur hungry for more clients or more knowledge (or both), print this list out and visit these business network sites. They’re the success boost you’re looking for.
Here are 29 business networking sites that can expand your network:
APSense: a self-proclaimed “web 2.0 enabled social network” designed to help entrepreneurs discover each other’s businesses. You can create your own content, create a private network, and create business partnerships.
Biznik: the site name means “fellow business person,” and it’s a haven for solopreneurs to support each other, collaborate, and network. According to the site, “if your business is an extension of your self-expression, then you’ve found the right home.”
The site has three subscription options: Basic (search-optimized profile and light participation), PRO (professional profile, full participation access, and create your own content), and ProVIP (an enhanced professional profile, search-optimized participation, and editorial support for created content).
Care2: if you or your business focus(es) on making a difference in the community or world at large (e.g. going green), this network is for you.
Cofoundr: a global network site dedicated to startup entrepreneurs, offering exclusive deals to help ‘treps save money and make valued connections to facilitate startup success.
Company.com: a site that not only provides intra-company networking services, but also aims to increase your company’s Google PageRank as well. Company.com offers to use its PageRank 8 (PR8) status to help get your site on Page 1 in Google search.
DOOSTANG: the “Ladders” for grads from top colleges, minus the “$100K+” minimum, it appears more a job site than a business network site.
Ecademy: a British business network site with global reach and accessibility, fostering connections online that can meet in person at various networking events worldwide.
The site has three subscription options: Free (view others’ content and establish connections), PowerNetworker (establish connections and create your own content), and BlackStar (the exclusive club that gives you the ability to meet offline at events).
EFactor (EFactor Corp.): claims to be the world’s largest entrepreneurial community, with over one million members (competition for LinkedIn’s 175 million, I suppose). EFactor’s unique selling proposition (USP) is its algorithm leading you to the connections your business needs instead of just connecting you to people you might know.
Entrepreneur Connect (site currently closed for redesign): business magazine Entrepreneur’s online community where ‘treps can connect, collaborate, and communicate with each other.
FledgeWing: a network for new entrepreneurs and students to build their business ideas and bounce them off the community to develop them into viable, pitch-able businesses, or collaborate on an already-existing project. The home page even has an ideas section in which anyone can post business ideas.
JASEzone: a network site that follows LinkedIn’s premise, but is a much smaller community.
Konnects: if you’re in the media or journalism fields, Konnects is a good network for you, and is especially helpful for promotion. The site states it’s “the only social media platform designed for local newspapers.”
LinkedIn (of course): perhaps the most important platform of the “big three”, LI is the most renowned global business network around, and its Premium membership is well worth the monthly payment, facilitating cold prospecting (via InMail) and leveraging existing connections to turn cold prospects into clients through introductions, recommendations, and now skill endorsements.
NetParty: this network arranges after-hours networking parties/functions at stylish clubs and venues for young ‘treps.
Networking for Professionals: a well-rounded (and slightly older) business network that fosters communication, connections, and partnerships, even providing a place for members to post resumes. Membership is mostly paid (with a few free exceptions in some states).
PartnerUp: the site’s description sums it up nicely: “the social network for small business.” Connect, find opportunities, partner with other business owners to expand yours, offer support, and even find real estate for your business if you’re brick-n-mortar.
PerfectBusiness: according to the site, “Our[s] is a network of entrepreneurs, investors and business experts. Everyone on our site is here to encourage entrepreneurship and mutual success.”
Plaxo: put simply, Plaxo is the address book on steroids, automatically updating your contacts’ info for you when they move, get a new job, or join a new social network.
PROskore (formerly Fast Pitch): the business network that measures your professional influence and ability as a business. As the TechCrunch article calls it, it’s “LinkedIn + Klout + Leads Generation”.
Ryze: Founded in 2001 by Adrian Scott, founding investor for Napster, Ryze is an elder (I’m using that respectfully) among social network sites, helping members to organize themselves by location, employment history, and interests.
The site looks simplistic, but is home to many big thinkers in the tech and business worlds, as you’ll see from the testimonials on its home page. The network offers free and gold member (only $9.99/month) options.
Socialcast: enterprise network software aimed to streamline intra-business communication and workflow; it also facilitates an intra-business social network.
Spoke: a business content curation site that connects people through information exchange and facilitates your growth as an authority in your industry.
StartupNation: as the name implies, the network site fosters brand new ‘treps to establish their startups with loads of resources, and of course offers the chance to network with other ‘treps.
TalkBizNow: an online business network that’s determined to help professionals glean information and form a community for free, even including its own internal contact and chat system in additional to all of its other business resources.
Upspring: this site is less a business network site and more a social media marketing and all-around promotional booster for your business.
Xing: though a European business network, it has global accessibility and offers not only networking, but includes job search, events, groups, and, like LinkedIn, industry news.
Yammer: helps companies form internal social networks and communicate/collaborate remotely as well across the web.
Young Entrepreneur: YE is part of Entrepreneur’s media network and has become one of the most venerable online communities for young ‘treps, startup CEOs, mentors and investors.
Ziggs: an online network that offers all the trappings of a business network, but specializes in helping you manage your company’s personal brand; and now offers a jobs board.
What Do You Do With All of This?
That list may seem exhaustive, but here’s how you can keep it simple: find three sites in the list that suit your needs and research them, narrowing down to one choice to add to your “big three” accounts that you feel will augment your business network or experience.
For More Information
I extracted this list from these informative sites:
About.com’s Web Trends article
Wikipedia’s list of networking sites
Like this article? Share it across your networks and get the word out.
Free Digital Photo by Renjith Krishnan.
Business
2026 PGA Show Takes Over Orange County Convention Center
Published
2 days agoon
January 23, 2026By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Florida National News is on site all week covering the 2026 PGA Show as it takes over the Orange County Convention Center, transforming Orlando into the global epicenter of the golf industry.
The annual event draws thousands of industry professionals, athletes, media, and golf enthusiasts from around the world to preview the latest innovations shaping the future of the sport.
Global Golf Industry Converges in Orlando
The PGA Show brings together exhibitors and attendees from across the globe, showcasing cutting-edge golf equipment, apparel, technology, and services. From club manufacturers and gear designers to course operators and teaching professionals, the show serves as a central meeting point for every sector of the golf world.
Attetion, Technology, and Interactive Experiences
This year’s PGA Show features immersive activations, including state-of-the-art golf simulators, interactive training tools, and expanded indoor and outdoor driving range experiences. Technology continues to play a major role, with advancements in swing analytics, performance tracking, and course management on full display.
The show floor also highlights sustainability efforts and innovations aimed at growing the game for future generations.
Florida National News Provides Front-Row Coverage
Florida National News will deliver comprehensive coverage throughout the week, offering exclusive behind-the-scenes access, exhibitor highlights, and firsthand looks at the products and experiences defining the next era of golf.
Readers can follow along for daily updates, photos, and feature stories straight from the heart of the PGA Show
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– Todd Grasley and J Willie David, III contribute to this report.
News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
2025 Don Quijote Awards Program: A Keepsake for Event Attendees
Published
1 month agoon
December 22, 2025By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Inside the official event program booklet, attendees will find the powerful presence of premier media partner Florida National News, whose coverage team of reporters, photographers, videographers and social media journalists captures the very best of the annual awards gala.
From high-fashion red carpet arrivals and VIP guests to cocktail networking, exquisite dining, live musical performances, dynamic emcees, presenters, sponsors, finalists, honorees and winners—Florida National News amplifies every unforgettable moment of the prestigious 2025 Don Quijote Awards Gala.
Hosted by the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera, and powered by Diamond Sponsor Disney along with numerous supporting sponsors, the gala takes place at EPCOT’s World ShowPlace Pavilion. Through comprehensive, high-impact coverage, Florida National News elevates the awards gala experience—before, during and long after the final applause.
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J Willie David, III and Jenny Rosario | Corporate Partners and Events | Florida National News
– News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
Hispanic Chamber and Prospera Honor Business and Community Leaders at 28th Don Quijote Awards Gala
Published
1 month agoon
December 20, 2025By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera co-hosted the 28th annual Don Quijote Awards Gala on Dec. 13, 2025, at EPCOT’s World Showplace Pavilion, bringing together business, civic, and community leaders from across Central Florida to celebrate outstanding Hispanic entrepreneurs and professionals.
Presented with the support of major sponsors including Walt Disney World Resort, Duke Energy, Orlando Health, Wells Fargo, and others, the prestigious gala honored individuals whose leadership, perseverance, and vision continue to drive economic growth and community impact throughout the region. Florida National News captured highlights from the landmark celebration.
“Walt Disney World is a strong supporter of Central Florida’s entrepreneurial spirit, and we do business with over 2,300 small businesses across the region, many of which are proud members of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and clients of Prospera,” said Jose L. Gonzalez, director of government and industry relations for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. “The Don Quijote Awards represent the best of our community, and supporting this event is a priority for Walt Disney World.”
Celebrating Leadership and Entrepreneurial Excellence
For 28 consecutive years, the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera have partnered to spotlight exceptional entrepreneurial journeys through the Don Quijote Awards. Current board chairs Oscar Cristancho of the Hispanic Chamber and Adly Santiago of Prospera Central and Northeast Florida joined the celebration to recognize leaders who exemplify resilience and achievement within the Hispanic business community.
The evening was hosted by two distinguished masters of ceremony: Univision Emmy and Telly Award–winning journalist and meteorologist Jennifer Chang, alongside Univision Contigo host and longtime Sábado Gigante co-host Javier Romero.
Juan Amo, senior vice president and market executive at Bank of America, served as the 28th Event Chair and led the Don Quijote Awards Selection Committee.
“As this year’s chair, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the passion and perseverance behind these awards,” Amo said. “Our finalists exemplify courage, integrity, and a deep commitment to lifting others along the way. Their journeys strengthen our economy and reflect the values that define the Hispanic experience.”
2025 Don Quijote Award Recipients
The recipients of the 28th Don Quijote Awards are:
Hispanic Micro-Enterprise of the Year: Graceful Paws Pet Clinic, represented by owner Dr. Lynette Reyes
Hispanic Enterprise of the Year: Angels For Kids and Families, represented by owners Elizabeth and John Valencia
Professional of the Year: Rafael Caamaño, director of UCF Innovation Districts and Business Incubation Program, University of Central Florida
Excellence Award: Carlos Torres, chief deputy, Orange County Sheriff’s Office
Hispanic Community Champion Award: Jennifer Evins, president and CEO, United Arts of Central Florida
Lifetime Achievement Award: Ramon Ojeda
Legacy in Motion: Building the Future Together
Reflecting the theme “Legacy in Motion: Weaving Through the Future of Tomorrow,” the gala celebrated trailblazers whose leadership laid strong foundations that continue to uplift the Hispanic community today. Ten honorees were selected from more than 100 leaders, and the program included a special recognition honoring the legacy of Roberto Clemente, represented by the Roberto Clemente Foundation.
“Every person in this room represents a vital thread in the fabric we are building together,” said Pedro Turushina, president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando. “Through leadership, service, and partnership, we are shaping a stronger Hispanic business community in Central Florida and beyond.”
Prospera Regional Vice President Katia Medina highlighted the organization’s milestone year, noting that the gala coincides with Prospera’s 30th anniversary in Central Florida.
“Our community’s spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation is vibrant and enduring,” Medina said. “We proudly carry forward the legacy planted by the pioneers who helped shape our path.”
Prospera President and CEO Augusto Sanabria added, “Their leadership laid the groundwork for the mission we continue today. Together, we are building a legacy that will benefit future generations.”
Guests enjoyed a culinary experience curated by renowned Disney Chef Luis Ruiz Guerra and the Disney Culinary team, followed by live Latin music from the band Caliente, which energized the dance floor late into the evening.
The gala was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Walt Disney World Resort, Duke Energy, Orlando Health, Wells Fargo, AdventHealth, Bank of America, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, Travel + Leisure, Universal Destinations and Experiences, Florida Blue, OUC – The Reliable One, JCQ Services, JPMorgan Chase, and Sky Builders USA. Premier media partners included El Osceola Star, iHeartMedia, La Prensa, Telemundo, Univision, Florida National News, Communicate 360, and RTW Photography.
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