March 14, 2026 — Douglas, Isle of Man The Isle of Man government and Business Isle of Man announced on March 12 that the island will host the Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time on April 16, 2026, at the Villa Marina Colonnade Suite on Harris Promenade. The event will gather business leaders, innovators, and policymakers from Celtic nations—Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, and Galicia—to discuss collaboration in sectors including AI, sustainable finance, maritime, regenerative tourism, and advanced manufacturing.
The forum expanded to a larger venue after initial tickets sold out, reflecting strong demand for cross-Celtic economic ties. Organized by Business Isle of Man, the free full-day program runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with limited spaces available via Eventbrite.
“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.”
— Tim Johnston MHK, Minister for Enterprise
Event Program
The agenda features keynote speakers, panels, and networking, including sessions on AI adoption, tourism with purpose, the value of nature, maritime, engineering, manufacturing case studies like Albion Knitting Company, and diaspora engagement. Highlights include welcomes from Chief Minister Alf Cannan MHK and forum founder Charles Kergaravat, with an invite-only evening reception at Noa Market Hall.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring the Interceltic Business Forum to the Isle of Man for the first time—not only to build deeper connections with another Celtic region, but to showcase the impressive innovation and momentum emerging from the island.”
— Charles Kergaravat, Founder, Interceltic Business Forum
Background and Significance
This marks the first time the Isle of Man—a UNESCO Biosphere reserve—will host the Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time, following events in Lorient, Cardiff, Galway, and Cornwall. The island’s status supports discussions on sustainability and innovation, aligning with its Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Strategy.
Celtic Congress Cornwall highlighted Cornwall Council’s involvement, while the Isle of Man Biosphere emphasized balanced economic and environmental growth. Coverage remains localized as of March 14, with promotions on social media by Locate Isle of Man.
Registration is open at the Eventbrite page, where the full agenda is listed. For related Celtic business news, see Celtic Congress Cornwall sitemap.