Connecting young professionals in a relaxed environment

A new networking organisation launched here in the summer has already recruited more than 50 members and aims to grow further.

BITAx – a branch of the not-for-profit member networking organisation, the British Irish Trading Alliance (BITA) was launched in Cork in June 2023, has successfully recruited over 50 ambitious young professionals eager to expand their business connections across the Irish Sea.

The London BITAx was established in 2017 to offer a BITA networking experience specific to young entrepreneurs and start-ups. Offering educational opportunities, quality networking events and access to expert mentors, the BITAx Cork chapter was set up to support aspiring young professionals and help them elevate their careers whilst integrating into British and Irish business communities.

Since the summer, BITAx has successfully revamped BITA’s established event model to cater to a younger demographic. It has hosted a variety of highly popular networking events, including a relaxed drinks reception at Crawford & Co., and a lively Mexican-themed night at Tequila Jacks.

Stephen Wilson Downey, Chair of BITAx Cork, believes these laid-back settings aid relationship-building: “The new BITAx events have a relaxed vibe to help guests feel as comfortable as possible. In our experience, both with BITA and BITAx in London, a more informal environment enables attendees to better connect with fellow professionals and, subsequently, create opportunities for future trade.

“With BITAx in Cork, we’re playing with more fun and creative event ideas to appeal to a younger audience of career-driven individuals who want to build their industry connections while taking the work out of networking.”

Tom Cotter, co-chair of BITAx Cork said: “It is fantastic to see BITAx Cork being received so well with 50 enterprising members already. This proves both the demand and need for networking opportunities among younger professionals in the city.

“We’ve had professionals join from a wide variety of businesses, from Sigma Homes to Sisk, and are looking forward to watching this chapter grow with more exciting educational and networking events planned in the coming months.”

A trip to the Cork FC football match on 27 October is planned, followed by a beer tasting at Turner’s Cross Tavern.

Details of upcoming BITAx events can be found at bita.ie/chapters/bitax/events/.