The Connection Challenge

Think networking has to be awkward? Think again.

What if you could walk into a room of business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals, grab a drink, meet people you wouldn't normally approach, have a little fun and leave with connections you actually want to keep?

That's what we're creating.

A Networking Night With a Twist

Beyond the Business Card: The Connection Challenge is a fun, interactive business networking event in Nanaimo, bringing together business owners, entrepreneurs and independent professionals from Nanaimo and across Central Vancouver Island.

Instead of standing around wondering who to talk to, you'll have a reason to get moving, start conversations and discover what you have in common.

Grab a drink. Meet someone new. Take on a challenge. See where the conversation takes you.

There will be challenges, a little friendly competition and prizes along the way.

But the real goal is simple:

Leave thinking, "I actually met someone I want to talk to again."

You Don't Need More Business Cards. You Need Better Conversations.

Most networking events give you a room full of people and leave you to figure out what happens next.

We're doing it differently.

We'll give you a simple way to warm up, practice your quick introduction and get comfortable talking about what you do. Then we'll turn you loose with fun prompts and challenges designed to make starting conversations easier and more natural.

No standing at the front of the room.
No forced introductions.
No pressure to have the perfect pitch.

Just come as you are and be ready to connect.

Ready to Try Networking Differently?

Grab your $15 ticket and join us for The Connection Challenge.

Come for the experience. Stay for the conversations. You never know who you might meet.

What You Can Expect

Meet. Mix. Play. Connect.

Expect an evening filled with:

• Guided networking activities

• Quick introduction practice and peer feedback

• Fun challenges that get you talking to people outside your usual circle

• A little friendly competition

• Opportunities to win Connection Challenge prizes

• Charcuterie-style snacks and refreshments

• Raffle prizes from our Community Partners

• Time to celebrate and recognize the people and businesses in our local community

And if you're feeling competitive...

You might just leave as our Connection Champion.

Who Should Come?

This event is for business owners, entrepreneurs, independent professionals and anyone looking to grow their professional network across Central Vancouver Island.

Whether you're looking for potential collaborators, referral partners, clients, new ideas or simply more great people in your professional circle, this is your opportunity to get in the room and start the conversation.

No networking expertise required.

Bring your curiosity, your business and yourself.

The 48-Hour Challenge

Good networking doesn't end when the event does.

Before you leave, you'll be encouraged to choose one person you met that evening and take the next step within 48 hours.

Send the message. Make the introduction. Grab a coffee. Continue the conversation.

Because a great connection is worth following up on.

Event Details

Beyond the Business Card | The Connection Challenge

📅 Tuesday, September 15, 2026

🕠 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

📍 Beban Park Social Centre, Lounge C
2300 Bowen Rd
Nanaimo, BC V9T 3K7

🎟️ $15

Seating is intentionally limited to keep the room comfortable and the conversations meaningful. Reserve your spot early.

Our Community Partners

We're grateful to the local businesses and professionals helping us bring the Central Vancouver Island business community together.

Amanda Gangoso
Cedar & Silk Picnics
Columbia Bakery
Cosmic Salt
Dairy Queen, Country Club Mall
Datasphere Dynamics
Kare Tax Services
Koffeeology
Michael Furlot
Modern Marketing Advantage
Self Discovery Wisdom Podcast

Thank you for supporting Sip, Learn & Create and helping create a space where local professionals can connect, learn and support one another.

Ready to Get Beyond the Business Card?

Grab your $15 ticket and come experience networking with a little more energy, a little more fun and a lot more opportunity to meet the right people.

Come as you are. Meet someone new. See where the conversation takes you.

📝 The Fine Print

• Seating is intentionally limited to create meaningful conversations
• Refunds or ticket credits for a future Sip, Learn & Create event are available up to 72 hours before the event
• Questions? Reach out to BinishaWealth@gmail.com or Mortgage@DamienRoss.ca