Ayrshire's largest business event is set to return this autumn with an expanded and diverse programme designed to help businesses connect, grow and thrive. Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce has announced the return of its flagship event, Ayrshire Business Week 2026, taking place from Monday 28 September to Friday 2 October.
The five-day programme will bring together businesses, entrepreneurs and professionals from across the region for a week of insight, networking and celebration. This year's programme will feature keynote speakers, practical learning opportunities, expert-led insight and Ayrshire's largest B2B exhibition, culminating in the prestigious Ayrshire Business Awards Dinner at Ayr Racecourse.
Together, the events will create a unique platform for businesses of all sizes and sectors to gain valuable knowledge, build relationships and identify new opportunities for growth within the regional economy.
Launch Event at Dumfries House
The week will open at Dumfries House with a flagship launch event featuring Scottish EDGE CEO, Evelyn McDonald, and the official launch of the new Ayrshire Regional EDGE. Attendees will hear directly from successful Ayrshire entrepreneurs, including Johnny Manning of Connekt EV Charging, Saskia Jae of Narture CIC and Ryan Leslie of Fuelfit, who will share practical insight into scaling businesses, securing funding and driving innovation.
Tuesday: Entrepreneurial Lunch and Economic Update
On Tuesday, the Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Ayrshire Entrepreneurial Lunch at Seamill Hydro will bring together young people and apprentices to hear from some of Ayrshire's most influential business leaders. Ayrshire Chamber members are also invited to attend an exclusive economic update delivered by Adam McGeoch, Bank of England Deputy Agent for Scotland, providing valuable insight into current economic conditions and the outlook ahead.
Wednesday: B2B Exhibition
A key highlight of the week, the Ayrshire B2B Exhibition, will return on Wednesday 30 September at The Park Hotel in Kilmarnock. Featuring more than 90 businesses and partners, the event will include speed networking and a networking lunch.
Thursday: AGM and Tech Event
On Thursday, businesses are invited to The Waterside Hotel in West Kilbride for Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce's Annual General Meeting (AGM), featuring a keynote insight from William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce. This will cover the BCC's role in advocating for Chamber members, key developments in UK and global trade policy, emerging trade opportunities across the EU, US and international markets, and the range of trade accelerators and support available to help businesses expand globally.
The day will also include a behind-the-scenes event at the Digital Process Manufacturing Centre (DPMC) in Irvine, exploring automation and applied AI and offering practical guidance for businesses looking to embrace new technologies and improve productivity.
Friday: Ayrshire Business Awards
The week will conclude on Friday evening with the highly anticipated Ayrshire Business Awards at Ayr Racecourse, hosted by entertainer and magician Ben Hanlin and sponsored by Business Gateway. The annual awards celebrate achievement, innovation and excellence across Ayrshire's business community, with 16 awards recognising outstanding organisations and individuals.
Claire Baird, Chief Executive of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Ayrshire Business Week is one of the most important dates in the regional business calendar, bringing together the people, ideas and opportunities that help our economy move forward. “This year's programme reflects the ambition, resilience and innovation we see every day across Ayrshire's business community, and we are proud to provide a platform that supports connection, collaboration and growth.”
