Local Growth

Powering prosperity through place

Convene Sancroft, London & Virtually
18 - 19 March 2026

Local growth is the engine of national renewal and innovation is its fuel. At the Connected Places Summit, explore how place-based innovation is unlocking opportunity, levelling up communities, and driving inclusive economic growth. 

From devolution and investment zones to innovation ecosystems and skills, we’re shining a light on the places leading with ambition and action. This is where councils, combined authorities, anchor institutions and SMEs come together to build local economies that are resilient, dynamic, and future-ready. 

 

We’ll spotlight real-world programmes where innovation is helping to decarbonise local industries, and bringing digital infrastructure into underserved areas. Expect insights into new funding models, smarter public procurement, and the role of civic leadership in delivering change. 

Whether you're enabling business growth, shaping local innovation policy, or scaling social impact, the Summit is where bold local visions meet national networks. 

Join us at the intersection of innovation and local growth and help shape thriving, connected communities across the UK. 

 

Attended in 2025

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Previous speakers who took the stage

Join leading voices driving local growth, from devolution and investment zones to innovation ecosystems and skills.

Our speakers will spotlight real world programmes decarbonising local industries, bringing digital infrastructure into underserved areas, and showcasing new funding models, smarter procurement, and civic leadership driving change.

Andrew Carter

Chief Executive

Centre for Cities

Councillor Susan Aitken

Leader

Glasgow City Council

Dan Mansfield

Director - Transport, Local Authority Advisory and Lending

National Wealth Fund

Steve Rotheram

Mayor

Liverpool City Region

Dr Colin Birchenall

CTO of the Digital Office

Scottish Local Government

Eve Roodhouse

Director of Strategy & Policy

Local Government Association

Marvin Rees OBE

Lord Rees of Easton

Esra Kasapoglu

Director of AIDE

Innovate UK

Mete Coban MBE

Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy

Greater London Authority

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The event was both informative and impactful...."

Places for London

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The event exceeded all expectations and fostered the necessary environment that allowed me to immerse myself in the panel discussions and meet a variety of interesting individuals from a variety of backgrounds."

Scottish Cities Alliance  

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The countdown is on

Tracks

Transport

Whether you're designing the future of rail, decarbonising freight, or reimagining the passenger journey, our Summit will connect you to the people, knowledge, and collaborations that drive real-world change.

Built Environment

This is where local authorities meet innovators, where SMEs meet investors, and where construction meets creativity. We’ll spotlight the breakthroughs, large and small, that are enabling more sustainable, affordable, and people-centred environments.

Local Growth

We’ll spotlight real-world programmes where innovation is helping to decarbonise local industries, and bringing digital infrastructure into underserved areas. Expect insights into new funding models, smarter public procurement, and the role of civic leadership in delivering change.

Data & Digital

This is where technologists, policymakers, and place leaders come together to discuss not just innovation, but trust, governance, cyber resilience, and the infrastructure needed to keep our systems future-proof and connected.