Microsoft and Google Lead Speaker Line-Up for Milton Keynes SME AI Conference

Business MK
September 12, 2025

The full agenda and speaker line-up for the Accelerating AI Conference 2025 in Milton Keynes has been confirmed — with experts from Microsoft, Google, and leading local firms set to deliver practical insights on how SMEs can put artificial intelligence into action.

The free-to-attend event takes place on Thursday 25 September at The Ridgeway Centre as part of Milton Keynes Tech Week. More than 150 business leaders, digital decision-makers and technology professionals are expected, with tickets already in high demand.

Backed by the South Midlands Growth Hub, the conference is designed to help SMEs move from AI interest to AI action, with real-world case studies, funding advice, and business-ready tools.

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson, director at Business Times and Business MK, said: “AI is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s here now, transforming how we work, market, and deliver services. This event is about cutting through the hype and showing SMEs how to apply AI in practical, measurable ways.”

Agenda Highlights

The day begins at 8:30am with networking before moving into keynote sessions and case studies:

David Bowen, Global Director at Microsoft – Microsoft’s vision for AI in the workplace
Lionel Naidoo, Managing Director at Dragon IS – Copilot and AI agents for productivity
Andy Paul, CEO at Fliweel.tech – AI agents in action
Ruth Roan, South Midlands Growth Hub – grants and funding for SMEs
Matthew Rigby-White, Managing Director at Qoob – how AI is reshaping marketing
Caitriona Corrigan, Retail FSR at Google Cloud – Google’s perspective on AI in retail
Live Panel Q&A, hosted by Usman Ikhlaq from techUK

The conference closes with open networking and refreshments at 3:00pm.

Ruth Roan, of the South Midlands Growth Hub, said: “Our aim is to give SMEs a clear roadmap on how to harness AI. That includes everything from funding opportunities to real examples of how businesses in our region are already using AI successfully.”

Local Innovation Meets Global Insight

Organised by a collective of regional SMEs, the Accelerating AI Conference combines world-class expertise with a strong focus on local innovation.

Lionel Naidoo, managing director at Dragon IS, said: “Milton Keynes is fast becoming a hub for digital innovation. This event is a chance for local business leaders to access global insight and see how AI can deliver tangible benefits in their own organisations.”

The event is supported by Business MK, Business Times, South Midlands Growth Hub, techUK, and Milton Keynes Tech Week, which serves as the city’s flagship festival of technology and innovation.