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Dr Craig Brown,
Director of Investment,
UK Space Agency

Join the UK Space Agency for an insightful session exploring how space plays a vital role in driving economic growth, innovation, and global partnerships. This session will provide: An Introduction to the UK Space Agency – Our mission, key initiatives, and role in the UK's thriving space sector. Space Data and Services in the Global Economy – How satellite technology and space-enabled services support industries from finance and agriculture to transport and climate monitoring. Unlocking Space for Business, Investment, and Government – Opportunities for organisations to engage with the UK space sector, including funding, partnerships, and policy developments. Whether you're a business leader, investor, or policymaker, discover how space can empower your sector and how the UK Space Agency is supporting the future of space innovation

Julie Holt-Jones, Founder,
Space4Sight

The global Space economy is expected to grow to $1.8 trillion by 2035. The Space industry is vibrant, and opportunities abound. From communications, navigation, timing to earth observation the applications are wide and spread across the defence, civil and commercial sectors. Looking further afield to the Moon, and deep Space, supporting technologies are enabling things that were once dreams real possibilities. Lunar bases, asteroid mining, space based solar power, commercial space stations, and manufacturing in Space.
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But there are also risks; Space debris, malign actors, a lack of 'Space Law' all adds to the feeling of the 'Wild West'. The loss of access to space services, could severely disrupt global trade and economic activities, potentially costing the global economy billions of dollars.
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This session will look at the advancements, the possibilities and the hazards, and will explore how international collaboration is the key to success.

Allyson Stewart-Allen, CEO,
International Marketing Partners Ltd.

In the on-demand, impatient and competitive US market, the key to your personal and business performance there relies on your international collaboration, teamwork and engagement abilities.Negotiating, influencing and communicating with Americans in order to build long-lasting and profitable relationships requires in-depth knowledge of the business culture so you avoid expensive mistakes while localising your offerings.This keynote session will provide you with insights that help you adapt your approach to the world's largest economy with practical advice and examples of the good, the bad and the ugly.Whether you encounter the US business culture in person or from your desk, knowing its business culture preferences allows you to succeed in the fast, noisy, crowded, transactional and diverse United States.

Steven Lynch,
Eastern Powerhouse

The East of England, has so many innovation and growth centres, the region is poised to enhance its global trade and investment appeal, particularly in sectors such as agritech, clean energy, and digital infrastructure. Cambridge's tech and biotech clusters are at the forefront of research and development, with initiatives like the proposed £150 million science innovation hub designed to provide critical infrastructure for early-stage companies, fostering growth and collaboration. In clean energy, Freeport East's 'green energy hub' at the Port of Harwich is establishing itself as a key player in offshore wind turbine manufacturing. Additionally, digital infrastructure advancements like the Connected Innovation platform are strengthening links between businesses and academic institutions in Norfolk and Suffolk, promoting technological progress.
To further attract global investment, the East of England must focus on three key strategies. First, investing in infrastructure, enhancing transport links, digital connectivity, and sustainable energy resources will create a more attractive environment for international businesses. Second, advocating for supportive policies and securing government funding for innovation projects will accelerate regional growth. Finally, highlighting success stories in agritech, clean energy, and technology will showcase the region's innovation capacity and further boost investor confidence. By implementing these strategies, the East of England can strengthen its position as a global innovation hub, ensuring long-term economic prosperity.

Martin Warner
Founder,
warpSpeed
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Jack Wu
Managing Partner,
Acadia Advisory Group

In today's interconnected world, expanding your business from local to global markets is both an exciting opportunity and a complex challenge. Join us for the session "From Local to Global: Market Entry Strategies for China and Beyond," where industry experts will share invaluable insights on successfully navigating the intricacies of entering the Chinese market and other key Asian economies. Participants will learn about essential market research techniques, cultural considerations, and regulatory requirements that can impact your entry strategy. We will explore various entry modes, including partnerships, joint ventures, and direct investment, while highlighting real-world case studies of successful brands. This interactive session will equip you with practical tools and strategies to effectively position your products, understand consumer behavior, and build a sustainable presence in China and beyond. Whether you're a startup or an established business, this seminar will provide the knowledge you need to thrive in the global marketplace.

Chaired by Steven Lynch,
Chair of IoD China Group

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK's trade relationship with China has become increasingly complex, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The UK government's 'Invest 2035' industrial strategy aims to provide stability and encourage investment in high-growth sectors such as green technology, artificial intelligence, and healthcare. However, SMEs face significant challenges, including regulatory hurdles and fragmented support systems, which complicate market access and trade operations.
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This panel will delve into the evolving trade landscape with China, focusing on how UK SMEs can navigate these challenges and capitalize on opportunities presented by 'Invest 2035'. Discussions will address the specific obstacles SMEs encounter, such as complex regulatory environments and limited access to comprehensive support and information. The goal is to provide actionable insights and recommendations to help SMEs thrive in this dynamic context.
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By fostering a collaborative dialogue among industry experts, policymakers, and business leaders, this session aims to shed light on practical strategies for the UK to successfully engage with the Chinese market amidst post-pandemic uncertainties and policy shifts.

Laurent Strauss,
Cybersecurity Strategist, OpenText

As organizations navigate an increasingly complex data landscape, the concept of data sovereignty--where data is subject to the laws and governance structures of the nation where it is collected--has emerged as a critical concern. This session explores how robust data access governance, comprehensive data governance frameworks, and modern security strategies work together to support data sovereignty. Attendees will gain insight into best practices for ensuring compliance and protecting sensitive information. Join us to discover how governance and security are not just safeguards, but strategic enablers of digital autonomy.

‍Tajinder Kaur Rai
Notary Public,
Rai Notary

Understanding the requirements for international legal documentation to ensure a smooth venture. Legalities are often left behind with practicalities taking priority causing cause unexpected financial issues and time delays.

Shabir Djakiodine
Chartered Accountant & Partner, Euro Accounting

Expanding internationally offers businesses access to new markets, diversified revenue, and global visibility. However, it also presents challenges such as legal complexity, cultural adaptation, talent acquisition, and regulatory compliance.
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This session explores the core opportunities and risks of global expansion, providing strategic insights for companies ready to grow beyond borders. Using France as a study case, we'll examine the steps involved in establishing a business abroad--from company formation and employment regulations to taxation and cultural integration.
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France, as one of Europe's largest economies, offers a skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and government-backed incentives for foreign investors. Yet success requires understanding local expectations, navigating bureaucracy, and building trust with partners.
Through this session, attendees will gain a practical roadmap to internationalisation, supported by real-world lessons from the French market. Whether you're taking your first global step or refining your expansion strategy, this session will equip you to scale with confidence.

Fiona Clouder
CEO, ClouderVista,
The Ambassador Partnership

In a time of shifting geopolitics combined with the triple crises of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss, the critical minerals needed for economic growth, energy security and the energy transition have become a focus for attention. This also creates new opportunities for international partnerships and trade and investment. Urgency of action, linking governments, businesses and communities, is critical.