Business leaders will gather to highlight the strength of the East Midlands ahead of a national real estate and investment summit.
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, and Amy Harhoff, East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) chief executive, are hosting the launch of East Midlands at UKREiiF.
Bringing together businesses, investors and civic representatives from across the region, the launch aims to showcase the region’s investment offer ahead of the national forum in Leeds later in May.
The launch takes place at Derby’s Museum of Making on May 6. It will provide a first look at the East Midlands’ presence at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), including an outline of EMCCA’s vision and regional priorities, and the programme of activity planned for the Team East Midlands Pavilion.
Mayor Claire said: “The East Midlands is full of strength and opportunity. We have strong industries, growing sectors and a shared ambition to deliver real growth for our communities.
“UKREiiF gives us the chance to showcase that on a national stage. It’s about bringing partners together, highlighting our global offer, and building the relationships that will unlock investment.
“My focus is on good jobs, good homes, and better infrastructure – and those things will only become reality if we unlock both public and private investment. Being part of UKREiiF enables us to have both the broad and targeted conversations that are the bedrock of future partnerships.”
Team East Midlands’ UKREiiF launch will highlight regional priorities and set out a shared vision for growth, collaboration and opportunity.
In keynote speeches at the launch, Mayor Claire will outline the strategic importance of the East Midlands’ participation at UKREiiF, reinforcing the role of partnership working in driving economic development, while Amy will highlight the region’s programme, including key projects and engagement planned for the national stage.
Delegates at the UKREiiF launch eventwill also hear from Matt Christie, UKREiiF director of external relations and event programme. There will also be a Q&A session with Mayor Claire and a panel discussion involving James Cowan, who is leading the delivery of the pioneering STEP Fusion project at West Burton, North Nottinghamshire.
UKREiiF, which attracts more than 16,000 delegates and 3,500 investors and developers, aims to connect “people, places and business” to drive regeneration and sustainable growth. It takes place at the Royal Armouries Museum and New Dock, Leeds, from May 19-21.
EMCCA hopes the launch will build momentum and ensure a unified regional presence at the event, positioning the East Midlands as a destination for major investment and innovation.
Click here to register to attend the East Midlands at UKREiiF launch event.
Published on: 16 April 2026
Categories: News, Economic Development