Accelerating AI Conference returns to Milton Keynes this September

Taking place on Thursday 25th September 2025 at The Ridgeway Centre, the half-day event will run from 8:30am to 2:00pm, and for the first time, forms part of Milton Keynes Tech Week. It also marks the first year the conference is being delivered in partnership with the South Midlands Growth Hub - a government-funded business support network covering Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire.

Organised by local SMEs for local SMEs, the event aims to help businesses understand, adopt, and benefit from the rapid developments in AI, with a particular focus on practical use cases and regional opportunities.

Real-World Insight and Local Expertise

Building on the success of previous editions hosted at MK:U and Aiimi, this September’s conference is expected to attract up to 150 business leaders from across the region and beyond.

Confirmed speakers include:

Andy Paul, CEO of Fliweel.tech and Voyce AI
Matthew Rigby-White, Managing Director of Qoob
Lionel Naidoo, Managing Director of Dragon IS

More keynote speakers are expected to be announced in the lead-up to the event, with updates available via the conference website: www.AcceleratingAI.co.uk.

Expert Perspectives on AI Adoption

Each speaker will bring a unique perspective to the event, with a shared goal of helping SMEs take confident steps toward AI adoption.

“AI is no longer a distant concept - it’s something businesses and consumers are engaging with today, whether they realise it or not,” said Matthew Rigby-White, MD of Qoob. “This conference is about cutting through the hype and helping people make informed, confident decisions for their businesses.

Following the last two events, which received overwhelmingly positive feedback, the organisers were asked by attendees to run another one - not next year - but as soon and as regularly as possible!.. That just demonstrates the support and interest from local SMEs about this topic.

What’s more, we’re incredibly proud to co-host this next event with South Midlands Growth Hub, and as part of the flagship tech event, Milton Keynes Tech Week, bringing together forward-thinking organisations who are ready to move from curiosity to capability.”

From a technical standpoint, the event will offer insights into the latest tools and platforms - including Microsoft’s own AI offerings.

“AI is reshaping the workplace, but many businesses still feel unsure about how to take that first step,” said Lionel Naidoo, MD of Dragon IS. “This event is about demystifying the technology and showing how tools like Microsoft Copilot can create real, day-to-day value. It’s not about replacing people - it’s about enabling them to do more with less stress.”

That pragmatic approach is echoed by keynote speaker Andy Paul, CEO of Fliweel.tech and Voyce AI, who added:

“We’re entering a pivotal moment where AI can transform how businesses operate - from smarter customer engagement to scalable automation. But success hinges on understanding what’s possible and how to deploy it responsibly. I’m looking forward to sharing practical examples of how organisations are already delivering real results through AI.”

Local Support on the Day

The involvement of the South Midlands Growth Hub will bring additional resources for attendees, including access to funding advice, 1‑to‑1 business support, and innovation coaching.

“AI isn’t just for big tech - it’s a real opportunity for SMEs across our region,” said Sam Hunter from the Growth Hub. “That’s why we’re excited to partner with this event. We’ll be there on the day to connect businesses with the tools, funding and advice they need to explore AI adoption confidently and sustainably. It’s about opening doors to innovation - and making sure no one gets left behind.”

The event is also supported by returning media partners Business MK and Business Times.

“At Business Times & Business MK, we believe in celebrating innovation - and that means shining a light on the businesses driving change,” said Kerry Lewis-Stevenson, Director of both publications. “Events like the Accelerating AI Conference bring knowledge and opportunity into the hands of local companies, and we’re proud to support that through our media partnerships and platforms.”

How to Attend

The Accelerating AI Conference 2025 is aimed at forward-thinking SME business leaders looking to explore how AI can enhance performance, productivity and decision-making across their organisation.

Topics on the day will include: