
Top business networking groups in London such as E2E host more than just casual meetups—they curate events that bring together high-profile founders, investors, policymakers, and industry experts. In this guide, we break down the types of speakers and sessions you’re likely to meet at London’s top entrepreneurship events—and what you can gain from each.
Keynote speakers: high-profile entrepreneurs and industry leaders
Most large-scale events feature keynote sessions led by successful entrepreneurs, founders of well-known startups, or executives from major corporations. These talks are designed to inspire, challenge, and offer real-world insights drawn from years of experience.
You may hear from:
- Founders of UK-based success stories
- Executives from tech giants with a London presence
- Industry analysts or bestselling authors
- Investors who have backed fast-growing ventures
Keynote speakers often share lessons on growth, leadership, failure, market trends, and the mindset required to build sustainable businesses.
Panel discussions: diverse perspectives on business challenges
Panel discussions offer the chance to hear multiple perspectives on one subject, typically featuring entrepreneurs, investors, consultants, or academics. A moderator guides the conversation while allowing for spontaneous insights and audience Q&A.
Common topics include:
- Scaling challenges and growth strategies
- Navigating investment and funding pathways
- Building inclusive company cultures
- Exploring emerging tech like AI or blockchain
These panels often create a space for constructive debate and nuanced views that broaden your understanding of complex business issues.
Workshops and masterclasses: practical skills for real growth
Workshops and masterclasses provide hands-on learning. They’re typically smaller, more focused sessions designed to give attendees practical tools they can apply immediately.
Popular themes include:
- Crafting investor-ready pitch decks
- Defining your value proposition
- Marketing on a budget
- Startup finance and cashflow management
Expect to work in small groups, engage in activities, and leave with frameworks or templates you can use in your business.
Fireside chats: personal insights from founders and investors
Fireside chats offer a more casual, interview-style format. They’re usually one-on-one conversations between a moderator and a guest.
These sessions often touch on:
- Early failures and how they shaped later success
- Mental health and managing founder burnout
- Balancing business with personal life
- Turning ideas into real companies
They provide a rare chance to connect with the emotional and human side of entrepreneurship.
Investor and funding panels: how to prepare for raising capital
Fundraising is a key concern for many entrepreneurs, so most major events include sessions focused on finance and investment. These may involve panels with angel investors, venture capitalists, crowdfunding experts, and startup advisors.
Topics covered might include:
- What investors look for in early-stage businesses
- How to structure a funding round
- Common mistakes when seeking capital
- Alternative funding sources for startups
These sessions often include real-life pitch evaluations or even live pitch competitions with feedback from investors.
Networking and roundtables: connecting with the right people
Networking is central to any entrepreneurship event. From informal mixers to themed roundtables, these sessions are designed to encourage authentic connection and peer learning.
Examples of networking formats include:
- Female founder breakfast
- Industry-specific meetups
- Early-stage startup networking zones
Some events also use apps to help match you with other attendees based on business stage, interests, or industry.
By knowing what to expect, you can make better use of your time, plan your schedule effectively, and walk away with insights that truly move your business forward.