The Isle of Wight Creative Industries Conference returns for a second edition on Tuesday 24th March 2026, bringing together freelancers, creative businesses and organisations for a full day of talks, workshops and networking at Building 41 in Cowes.
The event runs from 9.30am to 4.30pm, is free to IW Creative Network members, and will be streamed live via YouTube for those who cannot attend in person.
Building on early momentum
The 2024 debut attracted more than 80 creatives, funders and sector leaders, and this year’s gathering takes ‘Future Making – Creativity with Purpose’ as its theme.
Organisers say the day aims to help attendees set direction for the year ahead, hear practical lightning talks, explore support already available on the Island, and map their own creative goals through a facilitated workshop.
Optional micro-mentoring sessions with visiting advisers are also on offer, alongside free tea, coffee and lunch.
Keynote from a nationally recognised figure
Choreographer and cultural leader Zoie Golding MBE headlines the afternoon programme, delivering a keynote on creative courage, leadership and direction before leading a hands-on Goal Mapping workshop.
Zoie founded ZoieLogic Dance Theatre and brings more than 25 years of experience leading teams across the cultural, public and global events sectors. She has said of her approach,
“Leading creatively means trusting the unknown, turning failure into inspiration, and using imagination to shape experiences that others thought impossible.”
Practical business support alongside the inspiration
The conference also turns its attention to the economics of creative work, with the Federation of Small Businesses, the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce and the Rebel Business School each contributing sessions.
Those sessions explore how creatives can move beyond start-up support, build confidence as businesses, and access the networks and opportunities that underpin long-term resilience.
What the day looks like
Doors open at 9.30am for registration, with the formal programme beginning at 10am.
Morning presentations and case studies run until noon, followed by lunch and networking, before Zoie’s keynote and workshop take centre stage from 1pm.
A panel discussion with open-floor questions follows at 2.30pm, and from 3.30pm attendees can book one-to-one sessions with creative advisers before the day closes at 4.30pm.
Book your place
Booking is open now, with a full schedule due to be announced shortly.
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