Helen Zhang
Partner
Helen helps Triangle business owners get clear on the numbers and grow with intention. Bio coming soon.
About us
Built for operators who show up for each other
We are a welcoming and value-driven community for small and mid-sized business owners, operators, and aspiring entrepreneurs across the Triangle who want to acquire and grow stronger businesses.
Our mission
Real people building real businesses, together.
RDU SMB Meetup exists so founders and operators in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and beyond can trade hard-won lessons, open doors for one another, and leave each gathering with practical relationships — not just business cards.
Events are free to attend. We ask that you support our generous venues, bring curiosity, and RSVP on Luma so we can plan for the room.
What to expect
- Warm networking with owners who get it
- Practical talks and workshops — no fluff
- Free entry with community-supported venues
- Free appetizers at every meetup
- Occasional raffles that give back locally
FAQ
Common questions
Straight answers about who we are, how meetups work, and how to get involved.
What is RDU SMB Meetup?
RDU SMB Meetup is a free, in-person community for small and mid-sized business owners, operators, and aspiring entrepreneurs across Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the broader Triangle. We gather for practical talks, warm networking, and relationships that help operators grow stronger businesses.
Is RDU SMB Meetup free to attend?
Yes. Entry is free, and meetups include free appetizers. We ask that you RSVP on Luma so hosts and venues can plan for the room, support our partner venues, and bring curiosity to the conversation.
Where is RDU SMB Meetup and who is it for?
Events rotate across Triangle venues in and around Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. They are built for founders, operators, and aspiring entrepreneurs who want practical lessons and peer support — not fluff pitch nights.
How do I RSVP for an event?
RSVP on Luma, the source of truth for tickets and waitlists. Browse the calendar at luma.com/rdu-smb-meetups, or open any event page on rdusmb.com and use the RSVP button to jump to that meetup’s Luma listing.
Can I speak or sponsor a meetup?
Yes. Apply to speak on the Speakers page if you have a practical talk or workshop for SMB operators. Sponsorships from community partners help fund venues and giveaways — details and the inquiry form are on the Sponsors page. Or email us at hi@rdusmb.com.
How can I contact RDU SMB Meetup?
Email hi@rdusmb.com — we read every message. For event RSVPs, use Luma.
Co-hosted by
The people behind the meetup
Alejandro Morales
COO
Alejandro builds systems that give SMB operators their time back. Bio coming soon.
Want to support the community?
Sponsorships put resources back into meetups, venues, and giveaways. Reach out at hi@rdusmb.com — we'd love to talk.