Open Mic Pitching & Networking (Manchester)

​We’re bringing the Rare Founders magic up North for a special edition of our legendary Open Mic Pitch Night, teaming up with the brilliant minds behind Silicon Mingle Manchester for an evening of unfiltered networking, unscripted pitches, and unbeatable vibes.

​What to expect:

​This is not your average pitch night. We’re combining Rare Founders’ iconic 1-minute Open Mic pitches (yes, the water guns are still very real if you run over!) with Silicon Mingle’s signature no-pressure, no-panels, all-community networking format. Every 20–30 minutes, we’ll randomly select 5–6 founders currently raising funds to take the mic and pitch their startup to the room. Between rounds, expect buzzing conversations, clinking glasses, and connections that could change the game. Whether you’re here to pitch, meet investors, or just soak in the energy – this is where opportunities spark and community comes alive.

​About the Hosts:

​Rare Founders is an inclusive startup community best known for London’s Largest Demo Day, monthly Open Mic nights, and a 10,000+ strong global network of founders and investors. We create spaces that are vibrant, bold, and full of opportunity. (add in links to website) Silicon Mingle Manchester is the city’s favourite tech social – no panels, no pressure – just good vibes, great people, and a community-first atmosphere that keeps on growing.

​This month’s event is proudly supported by Barclays Eagle Labs

​Agenda: ​​​

​6 pm- 7 pm - Arrival & Networking ​​​​

​7 pm- 7:30 pm - Welcome from the host & Open mic pitching, 1st round (Women First) ​​​​

​7:30 pm - 8 pm - Networking ​​​​

​8:00 pm- 8:30 pm - Open mic pitching, 2nd round ​​​​

​8:30 pm - 9:00 pm - Networking ​

​9:00 pm - 9:30 pm - Open mic pitching, 3rd round ​

​9:30 pm - 10:00 pm - Networking ​

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​Don’t just hear about it—come experience it. Our Open Mic & Networking Night is where the UK startup scene comes alive with game-changing connections and electric community vibes. Whether you’re a regular or it’s your first time, this is where opportunities spark, conversations flow, and the ecosystem thrives.

​Come for the energy, stay for the connections—you won’t want to miss it! 🚀

​​👉 Spots are limited—sign up now.

​​By joining the event, you’re allowing us to capture and share some of the great moments! Photos and videos taken may be used later to showcase our community and for marketing, helping us make future events even better.​​​​

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​​​​What to sponsor the event and get exposure with hundreds of businesses? Please email fraya@rarefounders.com

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​​​​​​A Huge Thanks to our Partners!

​Safety Partner

​Safespace Plus will help foster an environment of safety and empowerment with our Code of Conduct & incident reporting system, giving our attendees a secure platform to voice any concerns and ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued.

​Venue Partner

​Campfield House is one of Manchester’s most dynamic venues, designed to bring people together for connection, collaboration, and creativity. With its modern, flexible spaces and community-first atmosphere, it’s become a go-to hub for tech meetups, startup gatherings, and networking events that spark real conversations. Whether you’re here to pitch, learn, or simply connect, Campfield House offers the perfect backdrop for building meaningful relationships and shaping the future of the startup ecosystem.

Sponsors

​Barclays Eagle Labs is a nationwide network of coworking spaces, accelerators, and support programs designed to help founders and innovators scale faster. With access to mentorship, funding connections, and cutting-edge resources, Eagle Labs empowers startups to turn big ideas into thriving businesses. As champions of collaboration and innovation, they play a vital role in building and strengthening the UK’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

​By joining the event, you’re allowing us to capture and share some of the great moments! Photos and videos taken may be used later to showcase our community and for marketing, helping us make future events even better.