What we’re about
Rare Founders is one of the largest startup communities in the UK with almost 20,000 members.
We run monthly open mic pitching and networking events where founders (mostly pre-seed to Series A) get 1 minute on stage to pitch. If they go over the limit… we spray them with water guns. Our events often feel like catching up with friends, and about 30% of people come on a regular basis.
We’re also known for hosting London’s Largest Demo Day – a one-day conference with 1,500 attendees where 100 pre-selected startups pitch to a full audience of investors.
On top of that, we run masterclasses on everything business-related: pitching, fundraising, go-to-market strategy, legal docs… you name it. We also send out a weekly newsletter with the best startup events in London.
Join us – we’re all about good vibes, fun, low-key energy, and efficiency. We’re different. Come and see for yourself.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Startup RunThe Green Park, London
# NETWORK AND RUN EVERY 2nd THURSDAY, SAME TIME, SAME PLACE
Join our Bi-Weekly Startup Run every 2nd Thursday at Green Park for a refreshing 5k run. It's a perfect way to network with founders, investors, and the broader startup community, while keeping fit. Post-run, we gather at a local pub to unwind and continue networking over drinks.
- 5k run through the scenic Green Park.
- Open to all levels of fitness.
- Post-run socializing at a nearby pub.
Networking Opportunities
Unique chance to network with peers in a relaxed, healthy setting.Target Audience
Founders, investors, and anyone in the startup ecosystem looking for networking with a twist.
# Please also join our Whatsapp group for this event where we share all the updates on the day https://chat.whatsapp.com/G15wUEi1oKU8enJchKpTuX
Videos from some of our past runs:
https://www.tiktok.com/@rarefounders/video/7327352967558909217
https://www.tiktok.com/@rarefounders/video/7390514175488871713
https://www.tiktok.com/@rarefounders/video/7343926449331572000 - Open Mic Pitching & Networking (Manchester)Lower Campfield Market , Manchester
We’re bringing the Rare Founders magic up North for a special edition of our legendary Open Mic Pitch Night, teaming up with the brilliant minds behind Silicon Mingle Manchester for an evening of unfiltered networking, unscripted pitches, and unbeatable vibes.
What to expect:
This is not your average pitch night. We’re combining Rare Founders’ iconic 1-minute Open Mic pitches (yes, the water guns are still very real if you run over!) with Silicon Mingle’s signature no-pressure, no-panels, all-community networking format. Every 20–30 minutes, we’ll randomly select 5–6 founders currently raising funds to take the mic and pitch their startup to the room. Between rounds, expect buzzing conversations, clinking glasses, and connections that could change the game. Whether you’re here to pitch, meet investors, or just soak in the energy – this is where opportunities spark and community comes alive.
About the Hosts:
Rare Founders is an inclusive startup community best known for London’s Largest Demo Day, monthly Open Mic nights, and a 10,000+ strong global network of founders and investors. We create spaces that are vibrant, bold, and full of opportunity. (add in links to website) Silicon Mingle Manchester is the city’s favourite tech social – no panels, no pressure – just good vibes, great people, and a community-first atmosphere that keeps on growing.
This month’s event is proudly supported by Barclays Eagle Labs
Agenda:
6 pm- 7 pm - Arrival & Networking
7 pm- 7:30 pm - Welcome from the host & Open mic pitching, 1st round (Women First)
7:30 pm - 8 pm - Networking
8:00 pm- 8:30 pm - Open mic pitching, 2nd round
8:30 pm - 9:00 pm - Networking
9:00 pm - 9:30 pm - Open mic pitching, 3rd round
9:30 pm - 10:00 pm - Networking
Don’t just hear about it, come experience it. Our Open Mic & Networking Night is where the UK startup scene comes alive with game-changing connections and electric community vibes. Whether you’re a regular or it’s your first time, this is where opportunities spark, conversations flow, and the ecosystem thrives.Come for the energy, stay for the connections, you won’t want to miss it! 🚀
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👉 Spots are limited—sign up now.
By joining the event, you’re allowing us to capture and share some of the great moments! Photos and videos taken may be used later to showcase our community and for marketing, helping us make future events even better.Interested in more startup events in London? Sign up for our weekly newsletter on top handpicked startup events in London for founders and investors. See more details here.
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## What to sponsor the event and get exposure with hundreds of businesses? Please email fraya@rarefounders.com
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## A Huge Thanks to our Partners!
## Safety Partner
Safespace Plus will help foster an environment of safety and empowerment with our Code of Conduct & incident reporting system, giving our attendees a secure platform to voice any concerns and ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued.
## Venue Partner
Campfield House is one of Manchester’s most dynamic venues, designed to bring people together for connection, collaboration, and creativity. With its modern, flexible spaces and community-first atmosphere, it’s become a go-to hub for tech meetups, startup gatherings, and networking events that spark real conversations. Whether you’re here to pitch, learn, or simply connect, Campfield House offers the perfect backdrop for building meaningful relationships and shaping the future of the startup ecosystem.
## Sponsors
Barclays Eagle Labs is a nationwide network of coworking spaces, accelerators, and support programs designed to help founders and innovators scale faster. With access to mentorship, funding connections, and cutting-edge resources, Eagle Labs empowers startups to turn big ideas into thriving businesses. As champions of collaboration and innovation, they play a vital role in building and strengthening the UK’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
By joining the event, you’re allowing us to capture and share some of the great moments! Photos and videos taken may be used later to showcase our community and for marketing, helping us make future events even better.
- Startup RunThe Green Park, London
# NETWORK AND RUN EVERY 2nd THURSDAY, SAME TIME, SAME PLACE
Join our Bi-Weekly Startup Run every 2nd Thursday at Green Park for a refreshing 5k run. It's a perfect way to network with founders, investors, and the broader startup community, while keeping fit. Post-run, we gather at a local pub to unwind and continue networking over drinks.
- 5k run through the scenic Green Park.
- Open to all levels of fitness.
- Post-run socializing at a nearby pub.
Networking Opportunities
Unique chance to network with peers in a relaxed, healthy setting.Target Audience
Founders, investors, and anyone in the startup ecosystem looking for networking with a twist.
# Please also join our Whatsapp group for this event where we share all the updates on the day https://chat.whatsapp.com/G15wUEi1oKU8enJchKpTuX
Videos from some of our past runs:
https://www.tiktok.com/@rarefounders/video/7327352967558909217
https://www.tiktok.com/@rarefounders/video/7390514175488871713
https://www.tiktok.com/@rarefounders/video/7343926449331572000 - Startup RunThe Green Park, London
# NETWORK AND RUN EVERY 2nd THURSDAY, SAME TIME, SAME PLACE
Join our Bi-Weekly Startup Run every 2nd Thursday at Green Park for a refreshing 5k run. It's a perfect way to network with founders, investors, and the broader startup community, while keeping fit. Post-run, we gather at a local pub to unwind and continue networking over drinks.
- 5k run through the scenic Green Park.
- Open to all levels of fitness.
- Post-run socializing at a nearby pub.
Networking Opportunities
Unique chance to network with peers in a relaxed, healthy setting.Target Audience
Founders, investors, and anyone in the startup ecosystem looking for networking with a twist.
# Please also join our Whatsapp group for this event where we share all the updates on the day https://chat.whatsapp.com/G15wUEi1oKU8enJchKpTuX
Videos from some of our past runs:
https://www.tiktok.com/@rarefounders/video/7327352967558909217
https://www.tiktok.com/@rarefounders/video/7390514175488871713
https://www.tiktok.com/@rarefounders/video/7343926449331572000
