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BNI® Mid-Year Report: A Surge in Business Referrals

As we navigate through changing economic landscapes, BNI® (Business Network International) continues to shine as a beacon for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The latest Mid-Year Report reveals that BNI has remarkably generated over $12.8 billion USD in revenue through member-generated referrals from January to June 2025, marking an impressive milestone. This affirms the integral role that trust-based networking plays in empowering businesses.

Since its inception in 1985, BNI has established a robust network comprising over 340,000 member businesses participating in more than 11,400 chapters across 76 countries. In the last year alone, BNI members produced an astounding $26.4 billion USD in revenue generated through 17.4 million referrals. This data underlines how essential networking can be for companies looking to expand their reach and capture opportunities, especially in uncertain economic climates.

The Power of Networking

The essence of BNI's success lies in the concept of the Givers Gain® philosophy. The organization's members endorse a culture of reciprocal support, providing referrals and resources to one another. Such qualitative interactions not only enhance business collaborations but also foster leadership skills among professionals. According to Mary Kennedy Thompson, CEO of BNI, this mutual commitment translates into business growth and fulfillment of entrepreneurial dreams. She stated, "Our Members know that the dedication of their time and commitment to give first leads to positive outcomes for their businesses."

In the first six months of 2025, there were over 500,000 visitors attending BNI meetings worldwide, eager to learn more about the benefits of structured networking. The growing participation reflects a shift towards collaborative business approaches, where mutual aid paves the way to financial independence and skill enhancement.

Expanding Horizons in 2025

This year has also marked significant growth for BNI in the United States, with strategic moves to expand its franchise territories. In fact, BNI signed its first franchise agreement in over a decade, aimed at the newly mapped West Texas region—indicating an aggressive initiative to cater to small business owners in emerging markets. This realignment allows for the establishment of new BNI chapters over the next five years.

July 2025 witnessed BNI members surpassing 1.6 million referrals in just one month, collectively generating more than $2.3 billion USD in revenue for small businesses. This surge showcases the efficiency of intentional networking in driving substantial economic impact for members, providing them with an average of $62,459 USD in closed business through local referrals.

Conclusion

In a world often fraught with economic uncertainty, BNI continues to be a stronghold for small business owners who are eager to connect and grow. By investing time and energy into BNI's collaborative framework, professionals not only boost their businesses but also gain access to invaluable insights and community support. If you're interested in exploring referral-based networking, visit a local BNI chapter or check their website for franchise opportunities.

Overall, BNI is a testament to the power of connection and community, setting new records year after year and empowering entrepreneurs to realize their potential through collective growth and success.