March 12, 2026 — Douglas, Isle of Man The Isle of Man to host Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time, welcoming business leaders, innovators, and policymakers from Celtic nations including Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, and Galicia on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Villa Marina in Douglas.
Hosted by Business Isle of Man, the event expanded to a larger venue following sell-out demand for initial tickets, as announced in the Isle of Man Government press release. The forum aims to strengthen economic ties through discussions on innovation, trade, technology, green growth, AI, regenerative tourism, maritime sectors, sustainable finance, advanced manufacturing, and community engagement.
Event Details
The full-day program includes keynote speeches, panel discussions, case studies, networking, an evening reception, and optional cultural excursions highlighting the Isle of Man’s UNESCO Biosphere status, as noted by Biosphere Isle of Man and the Interceltic Business Forum site. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.
A spotlight will feature the Isle of Man’s engineering and manufacturing strengths, including the relocation of Albion Knitting Company from London.
Speakers and Focus
Speakers include representatives from the Scottish Business Network, Cornwall Council, Tramshed Tech, Irish Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and Lloyds Bank International.
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 & CEO of Albion Knitting Company, added:
“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, remarked:
“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.”
Kirree Gooberman, Chief Executive, noted the island’s suitability due to its Celtic heritage and Biosphere status.
This Isle of Man to host Spring Interceltic Business Forum for the first time marks a milestone, building on prior events in Lorient, Cardiff, and Galway, as covered by IOM Today.