March 12, 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, at the Villa Marina’s Royal Hall, after initial tickets sold out and prompted a venue expansion.
The full-day event, hosted by Business Isle of Man under the Department for Enterprise, will gather business leaders, innovators, and policymakers from Celtic nations including the Isle of Man, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, and Galicia to discuss economic growth in AI, regenerative tourism, maritime industries, sustainable finance, advanced manufacturing, and community engagement.
Event Highlights
The forum marks the first time the Isle of Man hosts the Spring Interceltic Business Forum, following previous events in Lorient, Cardiff, Galway, and Cornwall. It underscores the island’s role as a UNESCO-recognized whole-nation Biosphere, balancing economic development, community wellbeing, and nature.
Speakers include representatives from the Scottish Business Network, Cornwall Council, Tramshed Tech, the Irish Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and Lloyds Bank International. A spotlight will feature The Albion Knitting Company, which relocated from London, with optional post-event factory tours.
The program features keynote sessions, panel discussions, case studies, and an evening reception at Noa Market Hall with Manx produce, hospitality, and live music by group Scran. Optional excursions the next day will showcase the island’s landscape, culture, and business environment.
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 [1]
“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 [2]
Independent coverage from Manx.News and IT Brief UK echoed the Isle of Man to host Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time announcement, noting the venue at Royal Hall (or Royal Albert Hall) at the Villa.