BNI Launches Global Business Network to Support Thai SMEs
BNI Thailand celebrated its 20th anniversary by launching a global business network connecting 5,000 SMEs and startups to shift from competition to collaboration, with plans to add 1,500 new members in 2025. Members have generated approxima
BNI, a global business network organization, is connecting SMEs to build a business ecosystem that transforms competition into collaboration and aims to drive entrepreneurs toward mega trends.
Recently at Bitec Bangna, marking BNI Thailand's 20th anniversary, the organization held the BNI Thailand Expo & International Conference 2026, attracting significant participation from Thai and international SME and startup networks.
Glakrit Thalengnawachat, Chairman of BNI Thailand, revealed that BNI develops Thai entrepreneurs, especially SMEs and startups, by building networks and expanding markets both domestically and internationally. The organization aims to shift the business world from competition to collaboration through a connectivity and collaborative network. This approach supports economic growth, resilience, and sustainability for the Thai economy under the Giver Gain philosophy, where members provide business opportunities to one another based on trust. Each member targets referring clients worth an average of 5 million baht to fellow members, creating continuous circulation in Thailand's economy.
Currently, BNI Thailand has 5,000 members from diverse business sectors, providing members with advisors and business development learning. In 2025, the organization expects to add 1,500 new entrepreneur members, bringing the total to 6,500 nationwide.
"Over the past 20 years, we have witnessed the development and transformation of our member network. Some entrepreneurs have grown into stock market listings, others have expanded their customer base internationally, and many have used BNI tools and networks to survive despite economic crises, political challenges, and the COVID situation. Overall, BNI members have generated approximately 135 billion baht in business value," Glakrit said.
He also outlined BNI Thailand's future direction, stating the organization will push SME and startup members to develop businesses toward global mega trends using an Accelerate approach—accelerating business transformation to align with macro trends affecting the economy, society, lifestyle, and sustainability. This includes collaboration with government agencies to support future economic policies such as electric vehicles, solar cells, sustainable tourism, creative industries, and pet-related business growth.
"Our Accelerate approach emphasizes sustainability, expands membership to entrepreneurs in various provinces, and creates member business value by connecting with international networks. BNI Thailand members span multiple industries including IT and online services, property and construction, marketing services, industry, health and wellness, and hotels and hospitality."
Merry Kennedy Thompson, CEO of BNI (Business Network International), revealed that BNI is a global organization founded 40 years ago with branches in over 78 countries and 355,000 members worldwide. BNI believes that business does not have to be isolated; building teams and networks are crucial to driving member businesses and mutual support. In 2025, the focus will be on combining tradition and innovation to develop member businesses. However, as global conditions change rapidly, BNI has implemented AI to provide greater support opportunities for members.
