Kent And Medway Business Summit Returns To Tackle The Region’s Biggest Challenges

Reset Kent will bring together business, political and community leaders to shape the future of Kent and Medway.

The Kent and Medway Business Summit will return to the University of Kent on Thursday 17 September 2026 with a bold new theme: Reset Kent.

At a time of economic uncertainty, political change and growing pressure on skills, infrastructure and public services, the Summit will create a platform for meaningful discussion about the future direction of Kent and Medway.

Bringing together business leaders, policymakers, educators, entrepreneurs and innovators from across the region, Reset Kent will explore how organisations can respond to change and help shape the county’s next chapter.

Unlike traditional conferences, the Summit will take a dynamic, participant-led approach designed to encourage debate, collaboration and practical action.

Delegates can expect high-profile speakers, expert insights and interactive discussions on some of the most pressing issues facing the region.

Among the highlights will be:

• An economic update from the Bank of England
• A keynote discussion on devolution and local government reform led by political broadcaster and commentator Iain Dale
• Interactive sessions exploring Kent’s identity, ambitions and future opportunities
• Facilitated discussions that allow participants to contribute directly to the debate
• Networking opportunities throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch and a drinks reception

The event comes at a particularly significant moment for Kent and Medway, as discussions around local government reorganisation and devolution continue to gather pace.

Organisers say the Summit will provide the first major opportunity following confirmation of these changes for businesses and stakeholders to come together and discuss what they mean for the future prosperity and identity of the region.

The programme will explore key themes including economic growth, investment, innovation, place-making, leadership and regional identity, encouraging delegates to move beyond discussion and towards collective action.

Speaking about the event, organisers said:

“Kent and Medway are at a turning point. Economic pressures, political change and shifting expectations are creating both challenges and opportunities for the region.

Reset Kent is about bringing together the people who care about the future of our county and creating the space for honest conversation, collaboration and fresh thinking about what comes next.

This is not another day of passive panels and predictable speeches. It is a chance for attendees to actively participate in shaping the conversations that will influence Kent’s future.”

Tickets are now on sale, with early bird pricing available for a limited time.

Thursday 17th September 2026, University of Kent, Canterbury.

For more information, to view the full programme or to book tickets, visit: www.kent.ac.uk/business-summit