March 16, 2026 — Douglas, Isle of Man The Isle of Man Government announced on March 12 that the Isle of Man to host Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time, with the event scheduled for April 16 at the Villa Marina. Hosted by Business Isle of Man, it will gather business leaders, innovators, and policymakers from Celtic nations including Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, and Galicia to foster economic ties.
The full-day program, expanded to a larger venue after initial tickets sold out, features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and case studies on key topics such as AI, regenerative tourism, sustainable finance, maritime industries, advanced manufacturing, and community engagement. This marks the first time the Isle of Man hosts the spring edition of the forum, previously held in Lorient, Cardiff, Galway, and Cornwall.
Key Topics and Speakers
Sessions will highlight the Isle of Man’s strengths in engineering and manufacturing, aligned with its Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Strategy. A case study will feature The Albion Knitting Company, which relocated from London, combining heritage craftsmanship with modern capabilities. Speakers include representatives from the Scottish Business Network, Cornwall Council, Tramshed Tech, the Irish Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and Lloyds Bank International. Post-event activities include an optional factory tour, evening reception with Manx produce and music, and next-day excursions.
Official Statements
“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
“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.”
— Chris Murphy, Founder & CEO, The Albion Knitting Company
Media and Social Coverage
The announcement has garnered attention from outlets like IT Brief UK, emphasizing tech and green growth partnerships, and local media such as IOM Today. On X, TechDay UK shared: “The Isle of Man is hosting its first Spring Interceltic Business Forum, bringing together Celtic regions to build economic, technology and green growth partnerships.”
Registration details are available via Eventbrite, though demand has exceeded initial capacity, underscoring enthusiasm for Isle of Man to host Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time.