SME Leadership Forum
Build. Connect. Scale.
The AFBE Live 2026 SME Leadership Forum brings together Research Students, SMEs,
founders, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, investors and large organisations for practical
conversations around innovation, growth and opportunity.
Designed for ambitious professionals at every stage of the journey, this interactive session creates space for honest discussions, meaningful networking and real collaboration between emerging businesses and established organisations.
Whether you are commercialising research, launching a startup, growing an SME, exploring entrepreneurship or seeking strategic partnerships, this session is designed to help you move forward with insight, confidence and connection.
Why Attend?
- Hear real founder stories and lessons from business leaders
- Connect with corporates, investors and decision-makers
- Explore funding, partnerships and growth opportunities
- Join practical roundtable discussions on real business challenges
- Discover how organisations work with SMEs and innovative businesses
- Meet collaborators, future partners and industry peers
- Gain visibility for your business, ideas or research
Who Should Attend?
- Research Students & Innovators
- SMEs & Growing Businesses
- Founders & Entrepreneurs
- Large Corporations & Industry Leaders
- Investors & Ecosystem Partners
- Professionals considering the founder or SME route
- Anyone passionate about innovation, engineering and business growth
What to Expect:
- Interactive Roundtable Discussions
- SME Spotlight Pitch Sessions
- Networking & Collaboration Opportunities
- Access to industry insight and practical business conversations
This is where opportunity meets action.