March 14, 2026 — Douglas, Isle of Man The Isle of Man Government and Business Isle of Man announced on March 12 that the Isle of Man to host the Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Royal Hall in the Villa Marina, after initial tickets sold out prompting a venue expansion to meet demand.
The forum will bring together business leaders, innovators, and policymakers from the Isle of Man, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, and Galicia to strengthen economic ties through discussions on AI, regenerative tourism, maritime industries, sustainable finance, advanced manufacturing, and community and diaspora engagement. A spotlight will feature the Isle of Man’s Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Strategy, including a case study on The Albion Knitting Company‘s relocation from London.
Speakers and Programme
Confirmed speakers include representatives from the Scottish Business Network, Cornwall Council, Tramshed Tech, the Irish Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and Lloyds Bank International. The full-day agenda features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and case studies, with post-event options like factory tours at Albion Knitting Company and an evening reception showcasing Manx produce and live music from Scran.
Official Statements
Tim Johnston MHK, Minister for Enterprise, said:
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.[1]
Chris Murphy, Founder & 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.[2]
Background and Promotion
The Isle of Man to host Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time marks a rotation following events in Lorient, Cardiff, Galway, and Cornwall. Business Isle of Man shared on LinkedIn the sell-out and venue move, while promotional posts on Facebook and Instagram note free attendance with limited spaces. Registration and the full agenda are available via Finance Isle of Man.
Additional coverage from Manx News and IT Brief UK echoes the announcement, highlighting tech and green growth opportunities among Celtic regions.