About the Cranford Business Alliance
Small Business Networking with the Cranford Business Alliance
Supportive, friendly, and growth-focused networking group
At the Cranford Business Alliance we have a unique approach to business networking. We are a collection of seasoned professionals who share the desire to participate and contribute to the growth and success of each member of the Cranford Business Alliance. Every member is significant; therefore every member has a voice.
Benefits of membership to the Cranford Business Alliance
Meet every other week (ideally in person) for lunch, which is covered by membership dues.
High-quality business referrals from professionals who share a dedication to quality service.
Access to seasoned professionals who act as sounding board for each other; you’re given the opportunity to tap into the collective expertise of the group.
Guest speakers on helpful business-related topics like SEO, the art of networking, and choosing the best business insurance.
Directory listing with link to your website.
Nurturing and supportive with focus on camaraderie. Truly care for one another.
Group is more about giving rather than taking; we’re committed to the personal and professional growth of members.
Group events like Somerset Patriots game (threw first pitch of game), Escapology.
Membership is $350/annually + $100 one-time onboarding fee.
Sound good?
What sets apart the Cranford Business Alliance?
We are dedicated to betterment of our members and their businesses.
Comparing your options for small business networking groups
Having a diverse, robust professional network is a cornerstone of a strong and profitable business. Among the benefits of joining a networking group are the referral business opportunities, but those can often come at a price. Ideally the networking group you join will give you access to the advice of seasoned professionals, and support as you navigate the highs and lows of owning a business.
“At the Cranford Business Alliance we value the input of each member, and help each other succeed.”
— James DellaVecchia, member/co-President
Alternatives to BNI
Networking groups like BNI and LeTip are well-known options for referral networking groups that require time and financial commitments which many busy small business owners may find hard to meet. We’ve put together this info on the Cranford Business Alliance compared to LeTip and BNI so you can decide which type of networking group would meet your needs.
Cranford Business Alliance
Focused on professional growth and support of members.
Attitude of members is “give more than you get” whether sharing professional expertise or providing business referrals.
Hosts guest speakers to cover business improvement topics like public speaking, SEO, business development, business insurance, and the art of networking.
Cost $350 annually plus $100 one-time onboarding fee.
Meets every other week over a lunch (when possible) that your membership fee pays for – no additional money out of your pocket.
No mandatory attendance, referrals, or sponsorships.
No mandatory time requirements.
BNI
Focus on building business referral systems.
Weekly meetings required both with group and with another BNI member.
Must be invited to join a chapter.
Membership $500 annually plus you pay for any additional costs, like if your chapter meets over lunch, you pay.
LeTip
Focused on lead generation and referrals.
Cost $430 annually plus around $40-$100 per quarter for Chapter dues.
Must attend two back-to-back meetings before application will be accepted.
Must attend weekly meetings.
Must pass on one business referral per week to another member.
Must sponsor one new member each year.
Is the Cranford Business Alliance a good fit for you?
If CBA’s focus on professional growth, camaraderie, and value for your investment (all without a lot of rules) aligns with your personal style and needs, let us know! We’d love to tell you more about our small business networking group, or have you join us at our next meeting as a guest. Submit a contact form for more information. You’ll hear back from a member within 48 hours.