The Big Creative UK Summit series returns for 2026
// create growth programme // event
Creative UK is pleased to announce the return of our summit series taking place across the nation to celebrate the extraordinary investment potential of the UK’s creative industries and the successes of the Create Growth Programme.
The Big Creative UK Investment Summit
17th February | Kings Place, London
The Big Creative UK Investment Summit is a landmark event, hosted by TV’s Steph McGovern, which will celebrate the extraordinary investment potential which lies within the UK’s creative industries. Taking place at King’s Place, London on 17 February 2026, The Summit will build on the success of last year’s sold-out edition, which featured an expo of 60+ creative businesses, alongside live investor pitching and a rich programme of keynotes and panel talks.
The Summit is proudly brought to you by Creative UK and Headline Partner, UK Research and Innovation, through Innovate UK and the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). Find the full list of Summit Partners here.
Across the regions
This year’s regional summits will celebrate the extraordinary achievements of businesses in these areas over the last two years, with showcases, pitches and networking at the following events:
The Big Creative UK Investment Summit: West Midlands
Tuesday 10th February | The Rep, Birmingham
Following last year’s sell-out Summit showcasing the creative power of the West Midlands, join us for an afternoon of bold ideas, inspiring founders, and vibrant performances – all spotlighting the region’s creative industries.
Hosted by multi-award-winning broadcaster and journalist and Create Central Champion, Marverine Cole, this event brings together creative professionals, investors, and cultural leaders for an energising mix of panels, fireside chats, and networking.
Create Growth Programme Summit
Wednesday 3rd March | 12:30-7pm | Leeds Playhouse
Join us for bold conversations, networking and showcasing creative investment from the North East, West Yorkshire and Hull & East Yorkshire. This investor‑led showcase offers the opportunity for early access to investment‑ready companies, a curated exhibition showcasing products, prototypes and IP, and the chance to connect with fellow investors and regional leaders shaping the North’s creative economy.
The Big Creative UK Investment Summit: Cornwall & Devon
Wednesday 4th March | 1-7pm | National Maritime Museum, Falmouth, Cornwall
Cornwall and Devon bring a unique peninsula perspective to the creative industries. This summit showcases business excellence, promotes investment opportunities, and curates bold conversations about policy and growth. Expect a showcase of creative businesses, a private pitch session on innovation and enterprise, and keynote discussions.
Summit Partners
The Summit is proudly brought to you by Creative UK and Headline Partner, UK Research and Innovation, through Innovate UK and the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).
The Summit is held in partnership with Summit Major Partners: Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), Amazon, Create South East, North East Combined Authority, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, West Midlands Combined Authority, Create Growth N2 and West of England Combined Authority, with more to be announced.
Our International Delegation is supported by International Delegation Major Partner, British Council and sponsored by International Delegation Partner, the Department for Business and Trade (DBT).
The Summit is also brought to you by Summit Partner, Creative Growth Hull & East Yorkshire.
