
What if I told you that you could boost your business, your network and even find a job over a coffee, a glass of wine or a cocktail.
Networking is like speed dating
No, it’s not a dream! Today, networking has become the competitive sport in the professional world. It’s like speed-dating, but for career opportunities! You build relationships with other pros to boost your business and network, hoping that one of them doesn’t ask you for money for a coffee!
In Switzerland, there are many events and networking groups that offer the ideal opportunity to connect with professionals from different sectors of activity. These meetings not only allow you to meet new people, but also to exchange valuable information and advice to improve your professional skills.
With this list find the network that suits you best.
“It’s not the wind that decides where you go, it’s the direction you set your sail; the wind is the same for everyone.” Jim Rohn
Networking: Definition
Networking is the act of building mutually beneficial relationships between professionals in order to exchange resources, information and great opportunities.
The art of Recommendation: a powerful tool!
"Success is often the result of good relationships." Robert Kiyosaki , author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad
In the world of professional networking, referrals are a powerful tool that can open doors and create opportunities. A genuine referral demonstrates your credibility and expertise, while building mutual trust.
In Switzerland, where word of mouth and relationships are highly valued, knowing how to recommend a colleague or contact can not only strengthen your own network, but also improve your company's reputation. It is essential to personalize your recommendations, taking into account the specific skills and abilities of the person you are supporting. A well-formulated recommendation can significantly influence the perception that a potential employer or business partner has of your network.
By cultivating this art, you participate in creating an environment where mutual aid and collaboration prevail, thus increasing the chances of success for all stakeholders involved.
Boost your business!
Professional networking is an essential lever for anyone who wants to develop their business. By creating a solid network, you increase your chances of finding potential customers, accessing strategic partnerships and seizing business opportunities.
In 2023, the 2,491 Swiss entrepreneurs of the BNI exchanged more than 61,000 business recommendations, representing a turnover of 326 million francs.
Find a job
According to a study conducted by the Harvard Business Review , 70% of jobs are obtained through referrals.
List of professional networks in Switzerland
No. | Network Name | Description |
1 | AGRP | A Geneva-based association promoting professional networking |
2 | AFTER | Network focused on the social and solidarity economy |
3 | AFTER-VD | Chamber of Social and Solidarity Economy |
4 | ASDEVA | Association of Swiss professionals specializing in business development |
5 | Association of Women SMEs in French-speaking Switzerland | Association of women's SMEs in French-speaking Switzerland |
6 | BIZ-connect | Networking platform for professionals |
7 | BNI | An international business network |
8 | Booster Club | The club to boost your business |
9 | CVCI Business Club | CVCI Business Club |
10 | CRR | Networking Club in Romandie |
11 | CARTONNER | The Art of Succeeding in Business |
12 | CCIFS | France-Switzerland Chamber of Commerce and Industry |
13 | CCIG | Geneva Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services |
14 | CDE | The circle of business leaders |
15 | Rezonance Circles | Professional networking circles |
16 | Thursday Club | Thursday Business Network |
17 | Geneva Finance Club | A club dedicated to finance in Geneva |
18 | Swiss Press Club | Professional club for Swiss press actors |
19 | CNCI | Neuchâtel Chamber of Commerce and Industry |
20 | CPG | Advertising and communication club based in Geneva |
21 | CREG | Geneva Entrepreneurs Meeting Center |
22 | CWF | Forum for women in their professional career |
23 | EO French-speaking Switzerland | Entrepreneurial organization of French-speaking Switzerland |
24 | IRON | The Federation of Romand Businesses Geneva |
25 | GenevaConnect | A professional connection based in Geneva |
26 | GENUINE | The network for authentic business |
27 | GJD | Young Business Leaders Group |
28 | GTE | European cross-border grouping |
29 | HR Geneva | Human Resources Geneva |
30 | HR Vaud | Human Resources Vaud |
31 | InterNations | International Expat Network |
32 | JCI | Junior Chamber International |
33 | The TGG | Talents of Greater Geneva |
34 | The Vagabonds | A network for traveling professionals |
35 | Mampreneures | Swiss Association of Entrepreneurial Mothers |
36 | Millionaire Lunch Geneva club | Lunch club for Geneva millionaires |
37 | N / A | Network Academy Sàrl |
38 | SMEs & Politics | A gathering of SMEs and politics |
39 | RCE | The Raiffeisen Group Entrepreneurs' Center |
40 | Live Networking | A real-time networking platform |
1 - AGRP – Geneva Professional Networking Association
Looking to boost your address book without going through LinkedIn? AGRP is here for you. Founded in 2016 by entrepreneurs who were fed up with bland lunches and ineffective networks, this association promises you quality contacts and zero commission on closed deals. Only one company per sector is allowed, so as not to get into each other's way between competitors. Meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month, so reserve your Tuesdays!
Membership conditions : CHF 50 per month (payable quarterly), room rental fees and breakfasts extra. Only one representative per trade accepted.
2 - AFTER – The social and solidarity economy network
AFTER, it's a bit like a Spanish hostel for the actors of the solidarity economy: you can find everything there, but especially people who have the same values. Transparency, collective interest, and ecology are the watchwords. If your company is involved in the Geneva region and you like to play fair, come and join us. We won't ask you to save the planet, but almost.
Membership requirements : CHF 100 + 0.01% of annual income for organizations; CHF 30 for individuals. Fill out a form and an ESS analysis grid. No big fortune to plan for, just a lot of commitment!
3 - AFTER-VD – Chamber of the social and solidarity economy
APRÈS-VD is the Vaudois cousin of APRÈS, but with even more commitment to a sustainable future and an economy that respects the environment. It's a bit like signing an ecological, social and solidarity pact. If you are ready to collaborate, not to do greenwashing, and to like meetings (lots of meetings), you are in the right place!
Membership conditions : CHF 50 or CHF 30 for individual supporting members, CHF 100 for small structures (less than 10 EPT) and CHF 200 for larger ones. One-hour meeting with the secretariat is mandatory.
4 - ASDEVA – Swiss Association of Business Development Professionals
ASDEVA is the ideal place for those who believe that "competition is outdated". Here, even your competitors are your friends (or almost). No membership fees, no co-optation, no hierarchical statuses to respect. Just a playground for all those who want to learn and grow in the business world. A bit like a playground for serious adults.
Membership requirements : Free for all, with two levels of participation. Members: Access to events and resources. Members+: With two years of experience, you can provide training and lead projects. The only limit is your involvement.
5 - Association of Women SMEs in French-speaking Switzerland
If you are a woman running a small business and juggling business and babysitting, this association is for you! Founded to empower women to stand together in the business world, it is dedicated to the heroines who manage it all. Local events, workshops and company visits are on the menu to help balance work and personal life.
Membership requirements : CHF 90 per year, plus a one-time fee of CHF 50 upon registration. Ready to join a community of Wonder Women?
6 - BIZ-connect
BIZ-connect is not just a network, it is an invitation to think differently. Between Lausanne and Geneva, come and share ideas with entrepreneurs and managers ready to break the codes. No special membership conditions, just the desire to connect and exchange with kindness.
Membership Requirements : N/A. Just bring your curiosity and ideas.
7 - BNI – Business Network International
If word-of-mouth recommendations are your cup of tea (or coffee, we don’t judge), then BNI is the network for you. Here, every member is an ambassador for your business, and the only thing you need to bring to the table is your willingness to network. Rigorous weekly meetings and only one expert per field of activity – no room for internal competition!
Membership conditions : CHF 4,000 per year. Weekly attendance required, three replacements tolerated per semester.
8 - Booster Club
The Booster Club is a bit like the collective kitchen of networking: everyone brings something to eat or drink, and everyone shares. The first initiative of its kind in Switzerland, it brings together ethical people who want to create something positive, while having fun. Since 2013, this club has been growing, even in the face of challenges like Covid-19, and is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
Membership conditions : CHF 538.50 per year. Respect for the club's values and participation in events in the form of a Canadian buffet. Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back within 30 days.
9 - CVCI Business Club
The Business Club of the Vaud Chamber of Commerce is the club for managers who prefer things to be well-organized: ethics, efficiency, quality, friendliness. Here, each member is carefully selected to ensure a diversity of profiles and avoid any deviation. The meetings are friendly, but business is serious business.
Membership conditions : CHF 450 (+VAT) per year for CCI affiliates, CHF 700 (+VAT) for non-affiliates. Entry fee of CHF 200 (+VAT) for everyone.
10 - CRR – Romand Networking Club
The CRR is the club that will make you love networking in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Here, each profession is represented only once, so as not to step on each other's toes. Sponsorships are encouraged, and regular events are organized to discover cutting-edge topics such as blockchain, without any hassle.
Membership conditions : CHF 150 per year, valid from January to December. Sponsorship is preferred, but you can always try your luck solo.
11 - CARTONNER
Do you want to "hit the jackpot" in business? This network is for you! Focused on marketing and mutual assistance between entrepreneurs, CARTONNER helps you improve your skills and achieve your goals in a caring atmosphere. Don't let competition hold you back; here, we help each other.
Membership conditions : CHF 40 per month with a 12-month commitment, CHF 50 with a 6-month commitment, or CHF 65 with a 3-month commitment. Online events are free, in-person events are at a reduced price.
12 - CCIFS – France-Switzerland Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Fancy a business getaway between France and Switzerland? The CCIFS is here to make life easier for cross-border companies. From VAT recovery to exclusive events, everything is planned to ensure business flows on both sides of the border.
Membership conditions : From CHF 550 to CHF 7,500 depending on the size of your company. You gain access to events, discounts on certain services, and much more.
13 - CCIG – Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services of Geneva
The CCIG is here for those who want to play in the big leagues in Geneva. A sprawling network of over 2,500 member companies, you'll find everything you need to take your business to the next level. Events galore and discounts on services await you if you dare to take the plunge.
Membership conditions : From CHF 200 for start-ups, up to CHF 350 for associations, depending on the share capital and workforce of your company.
14 - CDE – Circle of Business Managers
The CDE is a bit like a VIP club for business leaders. Founded in 1994, it is aimed at those who want to network without fuss, but with style. A subscription gives you access to all the events organized by the circle and the opportunity to meet decision-makers in your region.
Membership requirements : CHF 600 per year for active members, CHF 400 for associate members. If you are the type who likes "Who's Who", it's CHF 300 per year.
15 - Rezonance Circles
Do you need a helping hand to tackle managerial challenges? The Rezonance Circles are here for that. Form a group of 10 managers, and meet each month to discuss the topics that tickle you. You will have access to experts and a friendly atmosphere to share your experiences.
Membership conditions : CHF 3,200 per year. There are no small prices for big ideas.
16 - Thursday Club
The Thursday Club is the perfect place for those who like to have lunch while listening to inspiring speakers. One Thursday a month, we meet to discuss anything and everything, with no obligation to join. It's like a TED Talk, but with cutlery.
Membership Requirements : N/A. Come as you are, no promises to return!
17 - Club Finance Geneva
If finance is your thing, then the Geneva Finance Club is for you. Created in 2006, it brings together professionals in the field for meetings full of figures and graphs (but without PowerPoint). Here, we talk about investments, accounting and management like others talk about the weather.
Membership conditions : CHF 250 per year. No credit redemption here, just quality networking.
18 - Swiss Press Club
The Swiss Press Club is there for anyone who wants to understand what goes on behind the scenes in the media. Whether you are a seasoned journalist or simply a fan of lively debates, this club is the ideal place to meet great figures and chat over a coffee.
Membership conditions : From CHF 75 to CHF 20,000, depending on whether you are a journalist, a company or an NGO. Each has its own price, each has its own type.
19 - CNCI – Neuchâtel Chamber of Commerce and Industry
The CNCI is the bosses' club in Neuchâtel. Here, we don't just talk business, we also do lobbying and advice. It's the ideal place for anyone who likes to know what their neighbors are doing and how they can help each other to do business better.
Membership conditions : From CHF 540 per year, depending on the activity and the number of employees.
20 - CPG – Geneva Advertising and Communication Club
The CPG is where creatives meet. Advertising, communication, and a little bit of networking thrown in, that's what this club has been offering you since 1956. If you want to make some noise (but not too much), join this club.
Membership conditions : From CHF 75 for juniors and retirees, CHF 175 for adults.
21 - CREG – Geneva Entrepreneurs Meeting Center
The CREG is the canteen for entrepreneurs in Greater Geneva. Meetings, conferences, and even barbecues are on the agenda so that everyone can meet and discuss business without any hassle.
Membership conditions : CHF 100 per year for individual members, CHF 200 for companies.
22 - CWF – Career Women's Forum
The CWF is for those who want more than the rest. Founded in 1982, this forum highlights active and committed women. Come share your ideas, grow, and find ways to influence society. The club is also a good excuse to escape the office!
Membership conditions : CHF 500 the first year (entry fee and contribution). Then, CHF 250 per year, but with a credit of CHF 165 to participate in events.
23 - EO French-speaking Switzerland
EO is a bit like a school for entrepreneurs, but without teachers or exams. You will find discussion forums with other entrepreneurs and events with renowned speakers. You can even sign up for acceleration programs if you feel that your business deserves a boost.
Membership conditions : CHF 2,450 for companies with less than one million francs per year, CHF 4,700 for larger companies.
24 - FER – The Federation of Romand Businesses Geneva
FER Geneva is the employers' association that speaks loudly and acts even louder. Founded to help businesses and promote social peace, it offers a whole range of services ranging from legal assistance to payroll management.
Membership conditions : CHF 300 per year. Easy as pie!
25 - GenevaConnect
GenevaConnect is the Tinder of networking (without the awkwardness of first dates). You'll meet passionate people ready to talk about work, projects, and collaborations.
Membership conditions : CHF 20 per year. Easy, right?
26 - GENUINE
GENUINE is the home of female entrepreneurs who want to propel their project at lightning speed (without going through lightning). A dynamic community for women who are not afraid of anything and who want to make things happen.
Membership conditions : CHF 420 per year or CHF 42 per month. And if you are hesitant, come first to the OPEN EVENTS.
27 - GJD – Group of Young Business Leaders
The GJD is a club for young bosses (and those who have remained so). More than 350 members, six local sections, monthly meetings and an annual congress. Everything is there to share, exchange, and help each other.
Membership conditions : CHF 350 per year. We'll even give you a pro rata price if you join mid-year!
28 - GTE – European Cross-Border Grouping
Are you a cross-border worker between France and Switzerland and you like numbers (and administrative files)? The GTE is here to help you manage both sides of the border without worry.
Membership conditions : 90 euros per year. Discounts for under 26s.
29 - HR Geneva
HR Geneva is here for everyone who likes to talk about recruitment, training, and HR strategy. Want to be part of the circle? It's easy, open an account and come share your ideas.
Membership Requirements : N/A at this time, but be prepared for some paperwork.
30 - HR Vaud
HR Vaud is where HR professionals meet to discuss best practices and new ideas. With nearly 900 members, there is always someone to meet and something to learn.
Membership requirements : CHF 200 per year with a CHF 50 registration fee. Join to find out more!
31 - InterNations
InterNations is a bit like a survival guide for expats who don't want to feel alone. Whether you're in Zurich, Paris, or Bangkok, you'll find a group ready to welcome you and share tips.
Membership Requirements : Free (Basic) or become an Albatross for additional benefits. Rates vary.
32 - JCI – Junior Chamber International
JCI is for young people aged 18 to 40 who really want to change the world (or at least their corner of the street). No empty speeches here, just concrete projects and ideas that move.
Membership conditions : CHF 190 per year after a trial period. If you're not convinced, we're not convinced either.
33 - The TGG – Talents of Greater Geneva
TGG is the network for those looking for a job or wanting to create one. Workshops, coaching, networking… Everything is done so that you find your way and do not get stuck in the “job seeker” box.
Membership conditions : 30 euros per year. We welcome you with open arms.
34 - The Vagabonds
Les Vagabonds is speednetworking, leadership games, and a little fun in the sometimes too serious world of business. Here, we meet, have fun, and learn while networking.
Membership requirements : CHF 350 per year to be a member, or come as a guest for CHF 35 per evening.
35 - Mampreneures – Swiss Association of Mampreneurs
Mampreneures is the association of mothers who decided that 24-hour days were more than enough to run a business and a family. You will find workshops, training and unwavering support.
Membership requirements : Be a mother and an entrepreneur, all in Switzerland. Simple, but not simplistic.
36 - Millionaire Lunch Geneva Club
Millionaire Lunch Geneva Club: created by a young millionaire who understood that he didn't need more money, but more contacts. It's up to you to see if you fit the criteria (and especially if you have the wallet).
Membership requirements : Mystery! But being a millionaire seems like a good start.
37 - NA – Network Academy Sàrl
Network Academy is the new networking school for those who don't want to waste their time. Bring your energy, and leave with contacts and business.
Membership conditions : CHF 3,000 per year. It’s an investment that pays off!
38 - SMEs & Politics
PME & Politique is the perfect place to discuss political issues over a glass of wine with fellow entrepreneurs. Come and see for yourself if politics and business can really go hand in hand.
Membership conditions : CHF 100 per year. Cheaper than a seat in Parliament!
39 - RCE – The Raiffeisen Group Entrepreneurs’ Center
The RCE is where entrepreneurs come to talk strategy, finance, HR and more, all accompanied by a hot coffee. To each his own, but here, we favor real exchanges.
Membership conditions : CHF 290 per year (or CHF 400 for couples). It's not the space that's lacking, but the quality.
40 - Live Networking
Live networking is the choice of entrepreneurs who want fast results. Less blah blah, more business, face-to-face or online meetings, and a real desire to do useful networking.
Membership Requirements : $579 to $4,500. A little pricey, but we're not selling you hot air.
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