NI Chamber’s annual Festival of Business stands as Northern Ireland’s biggest and best business networking event. From the exhibition space to maximising experiences, here’s everything you need to know as Festival of Business exhibitors.
Book your exhibition stand here.
This yearly gathering brings together over 1,200 professionals and represents an unparalleled opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their products and services while connecting with key decision-makers.
What makes Festival of Business special
The Festival of Business connects entrepreneurs, executives and business owners for a day of inspiration, learning and meaningful connection.
You’ll gain valuable insights from leading speakers covering everything from sales and marketing tactics to business growth strategies and experiences. You can also expect to explore innovative solutions from fellow exhibitors spanning diverse industries, such as: Energy & utilities, tourism, charity, tech & software, education, banking, marketing & PR, HR & consulting, food & beverage, design, hospitality, sports, pharmaceutical, the list goes on.
With a carefully curated agenda, you’ll have the opportunity to forge connections that can transform your business, all whilst enjoying engaging entertainment and inspiring presentations.
This signature NI Chamber event provides the knowledge, contacts and motivation to propel your professional growth within Northern Ireland’s thriving economy.
Key information for Festival of Business exhibitors
Your exhibition space
Each exhibitor will receive an 8ft x 4ft (2m x 1m) space. If you don’t have a table or market stall for your exhibition space, market stalls are available on request but are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
All stands include access to a 13A double socket, though you’ll need to bring your own extension cables. Please note that tablecloths are not provided.
Floor plans will be finalised and shared at the beginning of September.
Getting there and parking
Street parking around the venue is limited, with APCOA Lanyon Place (Belfast, BT1 3LP) being the closest car park.
Setup and breakdown schedule (2025)
Setup access:
- Tuesday 17 September: 2.00 pm to 4.30 pm (market closes at 5.00 pm)
- Wednesday 18 September: 7.00 am to 8.00 am
All exhibitors must complete setup by 8.00 am on Wednesday, 18 September. Access to the marketplace is available from Oxford Street, May Street and Verner Street, with NI Chamber staff on hand to direct you to your stand.
Breakdown requirements: The event closes at 1.00 pm, but please begin breakdown no earlier than 2.00 pm to allow delegates to exit. St. George’s Market requires all exhibition materials to be removed by 4.30 pm on Wednesday, 18 September.
Registration and insurance requirements
All stand representatives must register in advance by 8 August. If additional members of your team would like to join the Festival, please ensure they’re all registered here.
Public liability insurance is mandatory for all exhibitors, and any electrical equipment must be PAT tested. Insurance certificates, plans and risk assessments may be requested by NI Chamber or Belfast City Council.
Product sampling and sales
We encourage our Festival of Business exhibitors to be interactive, so feel free to share samples, lay out your products, freebies, and so on!
Contact events@northernirelandchamber.com if you plan to sample or sell products on-site to ensure compliance with venue requirements.
Maximising your Festival of Business exhibition experience
Networking opportunities
The typical list of attendees and fellow exhibitors at Festival of Business is vast and represents the diverse nature of Northern Ireland’s business community, providing excellent networking potential across a wealth of industries
Marketing assets and communications
Social media graphics will be available to promote your attendance. Tag @NIChamber and use #FestivalofBusiness for increased visibility. Follow our LinkedIn and Instagram profiles for event updates.
Our media partner, U105, will be conducting a live broadcast throughout the day, with AXL providing audiovisual equipment and services, such as plasma screens, which you can get for your business for a fee.
On-site amenities
Drop Hopper Coffee and other catering suppliers will be available, with each stand receiving tokens for two complimentary coffees. Wi-Fi access is provided throughout the venue, and ATMs are located on Oxford Street for those preferring cash transactions.
Accessibility and support
St. George’s Market is fully accessible. Contact our team in advance if you have specific requirements to ensure your participation runs smoothly.
Recommended suppliers
For additional exhibition needs:
- AV equipment: AXL Audiovisual
- Graphics: MAD Colour, Nordica
Important reminder
Stand bookings are confirmed only upon payment receipt. If you haven’t already settled your booking, please pay online or request an invoice to secure your participation.
For all enquiries, contact: events@northernirelandchamber.com
Final details for Festival of Business exhibitors
Floor plans will be finalised and shared at the beginning of September, and a complete agenda featuring main stage speakers will be available on the NI Chamber website closer to the event date.
Festival of Business represents an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your business, build valuable connections and gain insights that drive growth. We look forward to welcoming you to this premier networking event in Northern Ireland’s business calendar.
🎟️ If additional members of your team would like to join the Festival, please ensure they’re all registered here.
🌟 Book your exhibition stand here.
