About this Event
Join us for the 4th Edition of AfBC Manchester - Africa Business Forum 2026 to connect with like minded business leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs, learn new markets, business, trade and investment opportunities, gain advice and support to grow your business.
Date: Thursday, 19 March 2026.
Time: 10:00 - 16:00
Venue: Birmingham
Theme: Harnessing the Economic Potential of the African Diaspora: Fostering (Greater Manchester) UK-Africa Trade, Investment, Supply Chains and Partnerships.
The Forum will convene business leaders, government officials, investors, entrepreneurs, members of the diaspora, experts, policymakers, academics, and professionals from across the UK to explore and highlight economic growth opportunities in Africa. The event will showcase prospects for local, regional, and international businesses and investors.
Join us for engaging discussions, gain insights from our speakers, and connect with like-minded investors, business leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
THE AGENDA
Inclusive Economic Growth & Industrial Strategy
- Advancing inclusive economic growth and regional industrial strategies
- Strengthening UK–Africa (Manchester-led) policy alignment on trade, industry, and investment
- Building resilient supply chains and sustainable global partnerships
International Trade, Investment & Market Access
- Exploring global trade trends, export strategies, M&A activity, and financing opportunities
- Market entry and risk mitigation strategies for doing business in Africa
- Investing in emerging African markets: technology, creative industries, fashion, healthcare, retail, and FMCG
- Navigating regulatory, financial, and sustainability complexities across African markets
Diaspora & Minority Economic Empowerment
- Enhancing the economic participation and impact of the African and wider diaspora in the UK
- Empowering minority-owned businesses and entrepreneurs for scalable growth
- Advancing inclusive access to funding and investment for UK minority SMEs and startups
Women, Youth & Inclusive Entrepreneurship
- Supporting women and youth-led enterprises in minority and diaspora communities
- Fostering inclusive entrepreneurship through targeted support, mentorship, and networks
Business Excellence, Growth, Innovation, Technology & Sustainability
- Driving business transformation through innovation and emerging technologies
- Leveraging intelligent and smart tech infrastructure opportunities across Africa
- Exploring circular economy solutions and sustainable manufacturing pathways
- Delivering scalable, tech-enabled impact solutions across sectors
Creative & Cultural Industries
- Unlocking opportunities in fashion, media, and the wider creative economy
- Connecting UK and African creative talent and markets
Investment and Financing Opportunities
- Accelerating investment, financing and funding for minority small businesses and startups.
- Exploring investment opportunities in UK real estate and property asset management
THE PROGRAMME
SPONSORSHIP
We have multiple opportunities for companies and businesses to showcase their product and services, enhance brand awareness and connect with new clients/customers.
For further information, to express interest in speaking at our events, or to explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at [email protected].
Learn more and sign up for AfBC Membership, visit www. african-chamber.com/membership.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Alliance Manchester Business School, Booth Street West, Manchester, United Kingdom
GBP 27.80 to GBP 130.72
