Kent and Medway Business Summit

Kent and Medway Business Summit 2026: RESET KENT

Thursday 17 September

Kent and Medway stands at a turning point

It's time for change.

Economic uncertainty, political upheaval, shifting identities, skills shortages, infrastructure pressures and changing public expectations are all colliding at once. Yet too often, we discuss these issues in isolation.  

Join us on Thursday 17 September to stop talking about the challenges — and start reshaping what comes next.

This is not another day of passive panels and predictable speeches. Expect a dynamic, participant-led event built around discussion, movement, debate and collaboration — bringing together business leaders, policymakers, educators, innovators and entrepreneurs to ask the big questions about where Kent is heading next.

A summit designed differently

For almost 10 years the Summit has been bringing together influential voices from across the county and beyond. But in 2026, the summit is evolving into something more ambitious.

Hosted across our Canterbury campus, the format will offer a more interactive and immersive 'unconference' experience designed to encourage conversation, exploration and participation.

You can expect:

Knowledge bombs

Short, provocative insights from economists, business leaders, policymakers and innovators designed to challenge thinking and spark discussion.

Walking discussions

Step out of your lane into spaces across campus, with opportunities to look at Kent and Medway from a new perspective.