16th Acumen Business Convention: Sparking Ideas, Innovation and Genuine Connection

There is a reason the Sussex business community continues to talk about the Acumen Business Convention long after the final applause fades.

It is where show-stopping entertainment meets serious business opportunities, a business convention of a different kind. On Wednesday 6 May 2026, that energy returns to The Grand, Brighton as we celebrate the 16th year of bringing people, ideas and ambition together.

Now recognised as one of the largest and influential business events south of the capital, the Acumen Business Convention has become a defining date in the Sussex business calendar. More than 250 founders, directors and decision-makers will come together for a day than blends insight, inspiration and connection all under one roof.

Sixteen Years of Championing Sussex

For sixteen years, Acumen Business Convention has been empowering Sussex. What began as a bold idea has grown into a movement that brings together local businesses, national speakers and a shared desire to see the region thrive.

The Sweet 16th edition continues that tradition, with a programme shaped around resilience, innovation and growth in challenging times. Early announcements already reflects this powerful theme, showcasing voices that inspire, not just through success, but through perseverance and purpose.

Stories That Move the Room

Among the first speakers revealed is Nick Hewer, Lord Alan’s right-hand man on BBC’s The Apprentice, entrepreneur and TV personality. Renowned for his business success, Nick will share witty tales of his wealth of experience and serious business advice.

On resilience, Marcos Jarvis, his stage 4 prognosis gave him just 91 days to live and a 1% chance of survival, but Marcos refused to accept his fate. Through overhauling his life and choosing to fight. Marcos is now 5 years cancer-free and an advanced Wim Hof Instructor. His extraordinary journey of resilience and determination won’t leave a dry eye in the room.

These stars are just a glimpse of the calibre of speakers still to be revealed…

The 16th Convention is honoured to welcome as Headline Partner and Sussex business hero, the founder of Creative Pod, Matt Turner MBE and as Prime Partner Mike Lawrence of the long established Global WealthMap Ltd. We will also have the pleasure of welcoming the one and only Star, Rob Starr
MBE of SEICO Insurance and Mortgages, the founder of the Starr Trust and the 2026 Convention Charity.

Built on Connection

What truly sets the Acumen Business Convention apart is the atmosphere. This is not a room full of strangers politely exchanging business cards, it is community in motion.

From informal networking before the event even begins, to entertainment that sparks table conversation, to thought-provoking insights in the arena sessions, the day is designed to foster genuine relationships. These are the conversations that turn into partnerships, collaborations and long-term opportunities year on year, often when you least expect it.

Be Part of Something Bigger

As a not-for-profit event, the Acumen Business Convention supports a different charity each year. For 2026, they are proud to partner with The Starr Trust.

A family-run independent charity dedicated to removing roadblocks for young people, The Starr Trust helps young people thrive and succeed through supporting education, opportunity and self-belief. Attending the Acumen Business Convention means not only investing in your business growth but helping create opportunities for the next generation.

WHAT TO DO NEXT:

SUPER EARLY BIRD TICKETS HAVE SOLD OUT, BUT SBT READERS GET THEIR OWN DISCOUNT CODE!!

Go to www.acumenbusinessconvention.co.uk and enter the promotional code: SBT2026 to book your discounted ticket;

Save the date:

• DATE: 06 May 2026

• TIME: 10.30 -17.30 + networking

• VENUE: The Grand, Brighton

• WHAT’S ON: Inspiring speakers, live entertainment, lunch, supper by Nostos, hundreds of business leaders and surprises- all sparkled with Acumen magic…

The event sells out every year, get your tickets now!