March 17, 2026 — Douglas, Isle of Man The Isle of Man to host first Spring Interceltic Business Forum, bringing together business leaders, innovators and policymakers from the Isle of Man, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany and Galicia on Thursday, April 16, at the Villa Marina to strengthen economic connections and explore opportunities in technology and green growth.
Hosted by Business Isle of Man, part of the Isle of Man Government’s Department for Enterprise, the event moved to a larger venue at the Royal Hall, Villa Marina in Douglas after initial tickets sold out, reflecting strong demand for cross-Celtic collaboration.
Event Details
The full-day program, running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., features keynote speakers, panel discussions and case studies focused on AI, regenerative tourism, maritime industries, sustainable finance, advanced manufacturing and community engagement. A spotlight on the Isle of Man’s engineering and manufacturing strengths aligns with its Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Strategy. Delegates can tour The Albion Knitting Company’s factory post-event, highlighting its relocation from London.
An evening reception at Noa Market Hall will showcase Manx produce, hospitality and live music from local group Scran, with optional activities the following day to explore the island’s landscape and business environment.
Participants and Speakers
Representatives from the Scottish Business Network, Cornwall Council, Tramshed Tech, Irish Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Lloyds Bank International are among the speakers. A welcome address comes from Chief Minister Hon. Alf Cannan MHK, with sessions led by figures like Tomás Ó Síocháin of Údarás na Gaeltachta.
The Isle of Man, the world’s first whole-nation UNESCO Biosphere, positions itself as a hub for innovation amid these discussions.
Official Reactions
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.”
Charles Kergaravat, Founder of the Interceltic Business Forum, said: “We’re incredibly excited to bring the Interceltic Business Forum to the Isle of Man for the first time.”
Background
Previous Spring forums occurred in Lorient, Cardiff, Galway and Cornwall, as noted by Celtic Congress Cornwall. Tickets remain available via Eventbrite. Coverage confirms the Isle of Man to host first Spring Interceltic Business Forum as a milestone for Celtic economic ties.