The programme for Invest in Croydon Conference 2026 has been released, outlining a day of keynotes, panel discussions and networking centred on one question: how to move Croydon from opportunity to delivery.
The conference builds on securing £1.2 billion of inward investment and advancing major regeneration opportunities over the last four years, including the transformation of the town centre and the redevelopment of Selhurst Park to major infrastructure improvements, London Gatwick’s Northern Runway and the wider Gatwick Region Airport Economic Zone, the opportunity is substantial. This year’s Conference is set to mark the beginning of Croydon’s next chapter.
It will highlight current progress, explore new opportunities, and importantly, focus on the essential steps forward – and the key players needed at the table. With the event drawing individuals with the capital, expertise, and influence to help shape Croydon’s future, the goal is clear: to establish Croydon not just as a place brimming with potential, but as one of London’s prime locations for growth and investment.
The programme features a full day of action-driven discussions starting with a keynote from the Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, titled ‘From Opportunity to Delivery’ followed by another address by Pierre-Hugues Schmit, Chief Executive Officer of London Gatwick, who will speak about the airport’s role in the region’s growth as the Northern Runway moves forward.
The morning’s main panel, ‘Greater Croydon: The Capital’s Southern Growth Gateway’, will explore what makes places genuinely investable in today’s economy and how Croydon can leverage its strategic position to attract businesses, talent and long-term capital. Rather than focusing solely on development opportunities, the panel will consider the wider ingredients that create sustainable economic growth and competitive advantage.
This will be followed by ‘Investment Opportunities: What’s Next?’, looking at the regeneration already underway and the pipeline to come.
This year’s lunchtime is brimming with activities. This includes a condensed investor tour, a Meet-the-planner event, and a surprise chat with a diverse mix of Croydon’s key business voices. These sessions will give delegates the chance to see progress first-hand and speak directly with people driving the borough forward.
After lunch, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield will provide an update on The Croydon Project, which is central to the regeneration of the town centre. Then, there are three breakout sessions aiming to explore what will drive growth.
Croydon as a Destination: Unlocking the Visitor Economy will consider how Croydon can strengthen its visitor economy by building on its connectivity, cultural assets and proximity to international gateways such as London Gatwick. Bringing together leaders from across tourism, hospitality, culture and business, the discussion will consider how collaboration and investment can enhance Croydon’s profile, attract visitors and deliver wider economic benefits.
Connected Croydon will explore the transport and infrastructure priorities needed to position Croydon at the heart of these changing regional dynamics. Speakers will discuss how improved rail, tram, road and active travel networks, alongside stronger strategic partnerships, can enhance connectivity, unlock regeneration and ensure Croydon continues to play a pivotal role in connecting London with the wider South East.
Skills for Growth will look at how education providers, employers and public sector partners can work together to build a workforce that is equipped for the opportunities emerging across Croydon, South London and the wider Gatwick Region.
The day will end with a drinks reception, which allows attendees to continue conversations held throughout the day with fellow attendees, including speakers, providing a platform for networking and future collaborations in pursuit of becoming London’s prime location for growth and investment.
Learn more by exploring the full programme here: https://investincroydon.com/conference/#programme
When asked about what our speakers would like to see in Croydon’s next chapter:
Gus Wiseman, Director UK Product, PATRIZIA said: In Croydon’s next chapter…
“I want to see it realise its potential as one of the UK’s best connected places, drawing in jobs, growth and sustainable communities.”
Julie Kapsalis MBE, Co-chair, London Gatwick Airport Economic Zone said: In Croydon’s next chapter… “I want to see the skills and the knowledge economy take a larger focus in conversations about Croydon’s regeneration. Partnerships across Further and Higher education have a central role to play in developing the talent, skills and apprenticeships that will sustain a resilient workforce for the South East.”
The Invest in Croydon Conference are extending the early bird deadline to Friday, 2 October.
Secure your place now and be in the room for key conversations about Croydon’s next chapter of growth: https://bookings.wlcreative.org.uk/event/invest-in-croydon-conference-2026/