Next Level Connect, Small Business Networking - April 2026

This is a welcoming space to build real relationships, learn from one another and grow together in a way that feels supportive and intentional.

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. Tobacco Wood Brewing is the first female, veteran-founded brewery in North Carolina—one of only a few nationwide when they opened their doors in Oxford on September 1, 2018. With the opening of the Durham location in 2021, the taproom and restaurant has grown into a place for casual local business lunch meetings or an after work beverage and for families to come and enjoy on the evenings and weekends.

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.

Need coffee or tea to mingle? Visit Qamaria Coffee next door and grab a hot drink to go. Unfortunately, Tobacco Wood Brewing doesn't serve coffee.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Michelle Johnson, Next Level Local