10 Networking Opportunities for Young Professionals in Indianapolis

In some places, young professionals find it difficult to break into the world of networking organizations. Luckily, Indianapolis is host to many Young Professional Networking Opportunities that help our young leaders make lasting connections.

All of these organizations share a common interest: their love for Indianapolis! Indyfluence has selected our Top 10 young professional networking organizations in the Indy region and highlighted the unique elements about them. 

There’s something for everyone in Indy, even when you’re talking about networking!

1. For meaningful connections… IndyHub

IndyHub is a resource for young professionals to find networking and volunteer opportunities in Indy that match their interests. IndyHub also hosts their own opportunities and programs, including trivia nights, city tours, and volunteer fairs. Currently, they’re offering virtual programming like book clubs and digital meetups.

“We believe that a diverse & engaged community is the strength of Indy’s today and tomorrow.”

For more info: https://indyhub.org/

For more information on Young Professional groups that aren’t on this list, please check out IndyHub’s comprehensive post.

2. For some serious career growth… Young Professionals of Central Indiana

YPCI is Indy’s biggest young professional group, connecting the city’s emerging leaders through professional development and networking events. Their programming includes panel discussions, monthly happy hours, and a leadership speaker series with industry experts.

“We offer a space for people to grow their careers, for those new to Indy to make lasting friendships, for YP’s to grow themselves personally with Higher Perspective panels, and to find ways to give back to the community.”

For more info: https://www.ypci.net/

3. For startups and entrepreneurs… 1 Million Cups

1 Million Cups is a place for up-and-coming entrepreneurs to practice presenting their products and startups to Indy’s young professional community – all over a cup of coffee! They also offer online training programs and workshops to refine pitches.

“Great ideas are discussed over a million cups of coffee” 

For more info: https://www.1millioncups.com/indy

4. For the social butterfly… Horizon Council

Conner Prairie is one of Indiana’s biggest historical attractions and outdoor museums. Its young professional organization, Horizon Council, is a group of volunteers who help plan and participate in Conner Prairie’s special events. The Council offers opportunities to fundraise and organize community events like History on Tap, a night of learning about prairie nightlife and craft brewing.

“Their voices are heard and perspectives captured as they help envision the Conner Prairie of the future.”

For more info: https://www.connerprairie.org/support/get-involved/horizon-council

5. For sales and business-to-business (B2B) … Rainmakers

Rainmakers is a business development organization based in Indy that helps entrepreneurial and sales-oriented professionals achieve their goals. They connect B2B professionals at events like LinkedIn workshops, Eat & Drinks, and roundtable discussions.

“We win when we get our members in front of new client opportunities, facilitate strategic relationship introductions, and provide results-oriented business development training.”

For more info: https://gorainmakers.com/

6. For the Indy lover… Circle City Connect

Circle City Connect is a networking organization dedicated to personal and professional growth through learning, socializing, and volunteering in the Indianapolis community. Together, they explore the city’s restaurants, experience Indy sporting events, and give back to the community through local service projects.

“We work together to get the most out of Indy, give our all to make it a better place to live, and make every effort to help each other grow – personally and professionally.” 

For more info: http://www.circlecityconnect.org/

7. For the nonprofit worker… Young Nonprofit Professionals Network

YNPNIndy provides Indianapolis’ young nonprofit professionals with a place to learn from one another and share the joys and struggles of nonprofit work. Some of their programming includes lunchtime huddles, community service projects, and professional development events.

“We believe in a thriving Indianapolis, a community where young nonprofiteers can come together and make our city vibrant.” 

 For more info: https://www.ynpnindy.org/

8. For the music buff… FORTE

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s young professional group offers networking events along with exclusive invitations and special access to Indy’s thriving music world. They offer cocktail hours with the Board of Directors, networking events, and VIP concert access.

“The FORTE leadership team contributes ideas, financial impacts through new sponsors and donations, and helped take the ISO’s message out into the community. In addition to all that, it’s FUN!”

For more info: https://www.indianapolissymphony.org/support/get-involved/forte

9. For the young at heart… The 1925 Society

The Indianapolis Children’s Museum young professional organization helps its members learn and grow through experiences across the arts, science, and humanities. Their programming includes networking parties, volunteer opportunities, and behind-the-scenes access to the world’s largest children’s museum.

“The 1925 Society supports the mission of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis by engaging new generations of young leaders and fostering professional growth through extraordinary and unique museum experiences” 

For more info: https://www.childrensmuseum.org/member/1925-society

10. For the animal lover… Indy Zoo Council

The Indy Zoo Council brings emerging leaders together through active participation in the Indianapolis Zoo’s programming and fundraising. Members contribute to volunteer projects, restaurant gatherings, and their annual fundraising social event, Zoolala

“We provide our membership with the opportunity to have a meaningful impact on the success of the Indianapolis Zoo through active participation in fundraising, educational and volunteer activities”

For more info: https://www.indianapoliszoo.com/support-the-zoo/indy-zoo-council/