March 13, 2026 — Douglas, Isle of Man The Isle of Man government announced that the Island will host the Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Royal Albert Hall in the Villa Marina complex. The event, organized by Business Isle of Man, was moved to the larger venue after initial tickets sold out, reflecting strong interest from business leaders across Celtic nations including Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, and Galicia.
The forum aims to strengthen economic ties through discussions on AI, regenerative tourism, maritime sectors, sustainable finance, advanced manufacturing, and community engagement. It features keynote speakers, panels, and case studies, with an evening reception at Noa Market Hall featuring Manx produce and live music by group Scran.
Programme Highlights
Delegates can expect sessions on technology policy, supply chains, skills, and the Isle of Man’s engineering strengths, aligned with its Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Strategy. A featured case study spotlights The Albion Knitting Company, which relocated from London, with an optional factory tour the following day. Speakers include representatives from the Scottish Business Network, Cornwall Council, Tramshed Tech, the Irish Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and Lloyds Bank International.
Free tickets are available via Eventbrite, with limited spaces.
Official Statements
Tim Johnston MHK, Minister for Enterprise, stated:
“The Interceltic Business Forum is an important opportunity to bring together business and policy leaders from across the Celtic nations. Hosting the Spring Forum underlines the Isle of Man’s role as a connected and collaborative place to do business, as well as a dynamic environment that encourages innovation, ideas and creativity. We are pleased to welcome delegates to the Island and to support conversations that will help shape future partnerships and practical collaboration across the Celtic world.”
Chris Murphy, Founder and CEO of The Albion Knitting Company, added:
“The Isle of Man has a long tradition of craftsmanship and entrepreneurialism, and that’s exactly why Albion chose to invest here… It’s also a great opportunity to showcase what manufacturing on the Isle of Man can achieve today.”
Background and Significance
This marks the Isle of Man to host the Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time, following editions in Lorient, Cardiff, Galway, and Cornwall, as noted by the Interceltic Business Forum site and Biosphere.im. The Island’s status as the world’s first whole-nation UNESCO Biosphere emphasizes sustainability themes. Early coverage appeared on Manx News and IT Brief UK, with X shares from @ManxNewsOnline and @EnergyFMNews.