March 12, 2026 — Douglas, Isle of Man — The Isle of Man will host the Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Villa Marina Colonnade Suite, bringing together business leaders, innovators and policymakers from Celtic nations including the Isle of Man, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany and Galicia.
The announcement from the Isle of Man Government and Business Isle of Man, the event’s host, highlights the forum’s aim to strengthen economic connections, share ideas and explore commercial opportunities across Celtic regions. Initial tickets sold out, prompting an expansion to a larger venue due to strong demand.
Event Details
The full-day program at the Villa Marina features keynote speakers, panel discussions and case studies on key opportunities such as AI, regenerative tourism, maritime, sustainable finance, advanced manufacturing and community/diaspora engagement. 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 focus on the Isle of Man’s engineering and manufacturing strengths, including the Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Strategy and Action Plan, with a case study on The Albion Knitting Company‘s relocation from London.
The Isle of Man to host Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time underscores its role as a UNESCO Biosphere and hub for innovation, as noted by the Isle of Man UNESCO Biosphere.
Key Quotes
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, commented:
“The Isle of Man has a long tradition of craftsmanship and entrepreneurialism… 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—not only to build deeper connections with another Celtic region, but to showcase the impressive innovation and momentum emerging from the island.”
Background
The Interceltic Business Forum series has previously been held in Lorient, Cardiff, Galway and Cornwall. Coverage in Manx.News and Celtic Congress Cornwall emphasizes the Isle of Man to host Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time as a milestone for Celtic economic ties.
Tickets are available via Eventbrite, with limited space. The event includes networking, an evening reception and optional cultural excursions.