iED Annual Conference & Awards 2026

The iED Annual Conference & Awards 2026 is one of the United Kingdom's leading professional gatherings dedicated to economic development, regeneration, investment, and sustainable growth. Organized by the Institute of Economic Development (iED), this prestigious event brings together experts, policymakers, local authorities, consultants, academics, and private sector leaders to discuss the future of economic development across the UK.

Held at the iconic BMA House in London, the conference provides an excellent platform for delegates to explore innovative strategies, exchange knowledge, and build valuable professional relationships. The 2026 conference theme, "Delivering Good Growth," reflects the growing need for inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economic development that benefits businesses, communities, and future generations.

Why Attend?

Economic development is constantly evolving due to technological innovation, environmental challenges, workforce transformation, and changing investment priorities. This conference offers attendees an opportunity to stay informed about these developments while learning directly from experienced professionals shaping the UK's economic future.

Participants will gain practical insights into regional development, place-based investment, infrastructure planning, housing, employment, innovation, and sustainable growth strategies.

Expert Keynote Speakers

The conference features respected speakers from government agencies, local authorities, universities, consultancies, and the private sector. They will discuss current challenges and future opportunities facing the UK's economy.

Sessions are designed to provide practical guidance supported by real-world case studies and successful regeneration projects.

Panel Discussions

Delegates will benefit from interactive panel discussions covering topics such as:

• Inclusive economic growth
• Levelling up initiatives
• Regional investment
• Green economy opportunities
• Infrastructure planning
• Skills development
• Housing and regeneration
• Business support strategies
• Community wealth building
• Innovation-led growth

These sessions encourage audience participation and provide valuable opportunities to ask questions directly to industry experts.

Networking Opportunities

Networking is one of the conference's strongest features. Throughout the day, delegates can connect with professionals from:

• Local authorities
• Combined authorities
• Government agencies
• Universities
• Developers
• Investors
• Economic consultancies
• Housing organizations
• Infrastructure providers
• Business support organizations

Whether you are looking for collaboration opportunities, partnerships, or career development, the networking sessions create an ideal environment.

Awards Dinner

Following the conference, attendees are invited to the prestigious iED Awards Dinner celebrating excellence in economic development.

Awards recognize outstanding projects, organizations, partnerships, and professionals making a significant contribution to economic growth throughout the UK.

The evening provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate achievements while continuing conversations with fellow delegates in a relaxed setting.

Professional Development

The conference contributes towards Continuing Professional Development (CPD), helping professionals maintain and enhance their skills.

Attendees will gain practical knowledge that can immediately be applied within their organizations and projects.

Learning Outcomes

Participants will leave with:

• Better understanding of current economic trends
• Practical regeneration strategies
• New policy insights
• Investment knowledge
• Improved stakeholder engagement techniques
• Better understanding of sustainable development
• Fresh ideas for local economic growth
• Expanded professional network

Who Should Attend?

This event is suitable for:

• Economic Development Officers
• Regeneration Managers
• Local Government Leaders
• Urban Planners
• Business Consultants
• Policy Advisors
• Investment Professionals
• Housing Specialists
• Universities
• Researchers
• Infrastructure Professionals
• Property Developers
• Public Sector Executives
• Community Development Specialists
• Private Sector Businesses

Conference Environment

BMA House provides a professional conference environment with modern facilities, excellent transport links, comfortable meeting spaces, and outstanding hospitality.

Its central London location makes it easily accessible by rail, underground, and international travel.

Business Benefits

Organizations attending the conference can:

• Discover emerging policy trends
• Learn best practices
• Meet potential partners
• Identify funding opportunities
• Explore innovative projects
• Strengthen professional relationships
• Improve strategic planning
• Support employee development

Future of Good Growth

The conference emphasizes the importance of balancing economic prosperity with environmental sustainability and social inclusion.

Delegates will explore practical solutions for creating resilient communities, supporting local businesses, improving workforce skills, and encouraging responsible investment.

By bringing together professionals from multiple sectors, the conference encourages collaboration that leads to stronger places and more prosperous local economies.

Register Early

Due to the popularity of the Institute of Economic Development Annual Conference, early booking is recommended. Registration includes access to keynote presentations, panel discussions, networking sessions, exhibition areas, conference materials, and the prestigious Awards Dinner depending on ticket selection.

Whether you work in local government, consultancy, academia, or private industry, this conference offers valuable insights, professional development, and meaningful networking opportunities that will help shape your future work in economic development.

The iED Annual Conference & Awards 2026 promises a full day of expert knowledge, collaboration, innovation, and celebration, making it one of the UK's most significant economic development events of the year. Its focus on Delivering Good Growth ensures every attendee leaves with actionable ideas, stronger professional connections, and greater confidence in supporting sustainable economic prosperity across communities throughout the United Kingdom. Event details are based on the official iED conference announcement.