Hatch: The business community that feels like a hug
Hatch is Eggu and the PA Portal‘s new and exciting Kent business community – But it’s not your average networking group.
It’s a networking happy place designed to boost your headspace. A go-to for connection, clarity, and community as we navigate the rollercoaster of running or supporting businesses.
Where it all began
Myself (Kat) and Ann Read met over coffee earlier in the year at a Digital Women conference in Birmingham. After being inspired from a talk around the power of community, we both admitted something: we’d been dreaming of kick-starting our own events in Kent for ages. So, we decided to stop dreaming and start doing. And what better than to tackle this with a solid team effort.
For me, it was deeply personal. The last few years had been rough – post covid, post baby, all whilst riding the waves and unpredictability of running a small business at that time. The emotional stress and overwhelm started showing up physically, and I knew I couldn’t keep pushing through on autopilot. I needed to address and take care of my mental wellbeing before I had the energy and strength to tackle the practical business stuff.
What I needed was a wider support network in my work life – because let’s face it, running a small business can be a lonely affair. Even if you have staff on board and you’re not fully working solo, the pressure on your shoulders is immense. You don’t want to share your worries for fear of demotivating the troops.
But my journey taught me something huge: the magic of reaching out. Of not hiding behind a brave face. Of saying, “actually, I’m struggling right now” and finding strength in the support of others. The relief, the energy, the connection you get when you stop being “resilient in silence” is so powerful.
Networking without the “ick”
But here’s the thing: I hated networking with a passion.
The forced smiles. The name tags. The formality. The pressure to stand up and pitch yourself. Ugh. I wanted something different – something natural. A community built on hugs, not handshakes.
So Hatch was born. And it turns out, if you create events that genuinely give people something they need – connection, fun, breathing space – the networking part takes care of itself. No awkwardness. No “ick.” Just real people talking and supporting each other.
A place where true bonds and support networks are formed. Events that leave you feeling clearer, lighter, and rejuvenated to step back into your business role.
Our first events
And wow, it’s working! We’ve hosted four Hatch events to date, each one totally unique:
- Hatch 1: A mindful walk around Sissinghurst Castle, with brownies at The Milk House.
- Hatch 2: A sauna and cold plunge at The Hot Box Co. in Tonbridge (invigorating doesn’t even begin to cover it!).
- Hatch 3: A family-friendly day at Caracol Glamping in Groombridge, complete with woodland walk, pilates, kids’ crafts, and a group picnic.
- Hatch 4: A wonderfully soggy autumn walk at the Hucking Estate, guided by Fresh Air Thinking, followed by goal-setting back at The Hook and Hatchet.
Every single time, we’ve had guests say: “Now, that was exactly what I needed.” And that’s when we know we’re onto something.
All hugs, no handshakes
The concept of Hatch speaks to our core values at Eggu of embracing creativity, transformation, collaboration, motivation and nourishment.
Without doubt, we’re all about celebrating the importance of learning here too – and in life this never stops. It’s not just about seeking out new software or business processes, sometimes its more personal than that. Finding ways to grow and evolve – building strength and positivity to tackle new challenges.
Yes we’re a digital agency – and it’s true, we love almost everything about the online world. But in reality we all need a healthier balance. I chance to interact with each other face-to-face, to get outside and take a breather, to share your struggles and celebrate your wins.
So, what’s next for Hatch?
Well, we’re only just getting started. Our goal is to keep growing Hatch into a community that truly reflects the needs of local business owners and supporters. We’ll be mixing things up with new formats, new speakers, and fresh ideas.
And here’s where you come in:
If you’d like to get involved in hosting a Hatch event, whether you’ve got a brilliant venue, a wellbeing activity, or a skill to share, we’d love to hear from you. It’s a chance to showcase what you do, while giving back to a community that’s all about lifting each other up.
Join our community
Hatch isn’t about networking. It’s about belonging. And we’d love for you to be part of it with us.
To stay in the loop about forthcoming events:
- Follow us on Instagram
- Connect on LinkedIn
- Join our LinkedIn community page
- Follow us on Eventbrite
- Subscribe to our newsletter
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