Following the success of the inaugural conference last year, ISLEXPO returns for 2017 with a focus on accelerating business growth. Registration is now open for the free two-day event taking place on 24th and 25th May at the Villa Marina in Douglas.
Hosted by the Department of Economic Development, the extended conference format offers a wider range of opportunities for local businesses and visiting delegates, featuring inspirational speakers, lively panel discussions, digital workshops and expert insights from local entrepreneurs and business leaders.
There will be more interactive content for delegates, as well as an increased presence from the Island’s different emerging sectors, including digital media and local food and drink. ISLEXPO will also highlight the benefits of living and working on the Island.
Lead speakers will include Co-founder of innovative business software company EnterpriseJungle and UNICEF business mentor - Emma Sinclair, Former Head of Google UK and Ireland, and high-profile digital entrepreneur - Dan Cobley and Master Investor and Author, Jim Mellon. Further announcements and the full programme will be released in April.
Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for the Department of Economic Development, said:
‘ISLEXPO is the culmination of dynamic ideas, strong industry support and a drive for innovation on the Isle of Man. This event is a unique opportunity to hear dynamic speakers share their journey to success, sample extraordinary local produce and network with the Island’s business community.
‘Last year’s ISLEXPO was centred on entrepreneurialism and was attended by over 1,000 delegates, resulting in a number of funding applications received. This year’s message has moved forward to one of ‘growth’ and we will be showcasing the success of the ?50mil Enterprise Development Scheme and the many funding and support opportunities available for local and relocating businesses.’
Stuart Nelson, Director of Barclays in the Isle of Man, said:
‘Following the success of last year’s event Barclays is very pleased to be sponsoring ISLEXPO again. Barclays is committed to helping new businesses and assisting entrepreneurs in growing their ideas into a prosperous business proposition and this is something I will be discussing as a panel speaker at the event. We will also be hosting a breakout session for entrepreneurs and start-ups to offer advice on business plans.’
Current sponsors of ISLEXPO 2017 include KPMG, Equiom, Barclays, Keystone Law, Manx Telecom, The TISE, Sure and First Names Group.
The event agenda will closely support the strategic objectives of the Programme for Government, promoting the Island as a place where local entrepreneurship is supported and more new businesses are choosing to call the Isle of Man home.
To register for a free place at the conference and to see full details of the agenda, please visit www.islexpo.com.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available to businesses looking to support the Island’s business community and bring great value to the event. For sponsor information, please visit www.islexpo.com.
