For small business owners in the 919 area code, there is a new networking site called Inside 919.

"There are amazing businesses and business owners, but because of the vastness of the internet they are having trouble getting their website seen. We are the connector. We try to connect these folks," said site founder Pat Howlett.

Howlett says the site is for business professionals but also combines a social aspect. User Anora McGaha said it is a unique site offering blogs, video posts and even an online radio show.

"There is a value and a culture that comes along with it. It's not about leading meeting people leading with a sales pitch. It's about getting to know people. The business and collaboration will follow," McGaha said.

The site works like many other social sites where you sign up with a username and password, but then you fill out a short application. Howlett will review it, but he said if you are a business owner, you will be accepted into the group for no charge.

"There are some rules. You can't spam or overly promote. And we don't want bodacious promotion," Howlett said.

Currently, there are more than 1,100 members using Inside 919 and once you have networked online you can meet follow business owners in person at monthly meetings around the Triangle.

For more information click here.

Related Links

1. Inside 919