The East Midlands Growth Conference 2026 is a one-day, in-person event bringing together ambitious business leaders from across the region to explore practical strategies for growth.
Delivered in partnership with Leicester Business School, the conference is designed to provide clear, commercially focused insight into what it takes to grow in today’s economic climate. The day will feature expert speakers, panel discussions, and real-world perspectives across the key areas driving business performance.
The programme will open with an economic outlook from the University of Leicester, setting the context for the day, before moving on to funding, banking, and financial strategy, with speakers from corporate finance, private equity, and the London Stock Exchange.
From there, the focus shifts to the operational side of growth, including culture, leadership, and marketing, alongside sessions exploring how AI and technology can increase output and efficiency without increasing headcount. Additional sessions will cover procurement, board structure, and accessing senior talent through non-executive and fractional roles.
The conference will also look ahead, with discussions around engaging Gen Z, developing future leaders, and the growing importance of neurodiversity within modern organisations.
The day will close with a final session focused on “The Growth Playbook for 2026 and Beyond”, bringing together the key themes and leaving attendees with clear, actionable takeaways.
Alongside the conference, there will be a curated exhibition space running throughout the day, showcasing services and solutions designed to support business growth, from marketing and finance through to AI, technology, and talent.
