BNI is the largest business networking organization in the world. We offer members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and most importantly, business referrals.

Started in January 1985 by Dr. Ivan R. Misner, Founder & Chairman of BNI. BNI provides a positive, supportive, and structured environment for men and women to further their business through word-of-mouth marketing.  

Dr. Misner was a management consultant when he started BNI in 1985. He worked with companies that needed assistance in the area of strategic planning and organizational development. As a business consultant, he received most of his business through referrals. However, he was not satisfied with the types of business groups that existed and he put together a networking group that was structured, focussed on doing business and had an emphasis on positive reinforcement and support. That organization became BNI.

Business Network International has seen tremendous growth over the years. Since its beginnings, BNI has grown to over 5000 chapters, consisting of more than 110,000 members in many countries around the globe. Last year, members of BNI passed over 5.6 million referrals worldwide that generated over $2.3 billion (USD) for its members!

Networking requires commitment. The Upper Ottawa Valley chapter of BNI is comprised of participants who are sincerely committed to helping one another through networking.

Benefits of Membership
► Increased exposure to many other people and businesses.
► Substantially increased referrals.
► Lock out your competition!  Only one business per category is permitted.
► Tools to network more effectively, including an orientation CD giving the "Formula for Success" in BNI, a badge, a vinyl card holder to carry members' business cards, referral slips, marketing materials for your chapter and much, much more.
► Participation in up to 52 networking meetings per year.
► Bi-monthly newsletters with educational material on networking, public speaking, and business.
► Participation in business tradeshows (where you'll have an opportunity to market your chapter and your business).
► Free periodic workshops on networking.
► And much, much more!!!