It's normally a must-attend business networking event at the University of Kent's Canterbury campus - but this year things were a little different for the Kent and Medway Business Summit as the event switched online.

But the remote event didn't stop more than 300 delegates attending the event for five hours of networking and expert comment.

Organised by the university in partnership with the Federation of Small Businesses, Institute of Directors and Locate in Kent, the digital event brought together key policy makers with businesses large and small to create and share a vision for the region.

Speakers included Kent County Council leader, Cllr Roger Gough, deputy chief executive at Medway Council, Richard Hicks and CEO at Locate in Kent, Gavin Cleary.

At a national level, the summit heard from speakers including Prof Anand Menon, regular Radio 4 contributor and director of UK in a Changing Europe, who spoke about the UK’s new political relationship with the EU, and it’s impact on business.

Director of Policy from the Institute of Directors, Dr Roger Barker, gave insights into the latest from the government’s response to Covid-19.

Final keynote of the day was given by global tech pioneer, Rana el Kaliouby, who spoke about 'emotion AI' and its impact on society and businesses.

In addition to the keynote speeches, delegates took part in workshops on innovation and productivity in the region’s food and drink sector, the future of our town centres and high streets, the development of digital skills in the region and creation of a sustainable infrastructure.

Delegates logged on the Remo platform allowing them to roam three 'floors' of the conference floor, sitting at tables which allowed those connected to chat via video link.

Professor Marian Garcia, dean of Kent Business School which leads on planning the summit, said: “The past year has been extremely challenging for a number of sectors, so was important the summit provided a platform at this pivotal time for businesses to come together with policy makers to create a shared vision for Kent and Medway.

“It was inspiring to hear the work our local authorities and agencies are doing to ensure the renewal of the region and to see the clear passion and resilience of the business communities."

Headline sponsors of the Kent and Medway Business Summit 2021 were Kreston Reeves. Supporting sponsors were Kayo Digital, Canterbury AI, British Business Bank and Southeastern Railway.

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