Inside the Isle of Man's Innovation Strategy with Kirree Gooberman

As Head of Business Development at Business Isle of Man, Kirree Gooberman plays a pivotal role in shaping the Island’s future-ready economy — one that’s built on innovation, sustainability, and international connection.

From FinTech to cleantech, the Isle of Man is cultivating a high-impact, high-integrity business environment — and Kirree is one of the leading voices helping bring that vision to life. Ahead of her participation at the Interceltic Business Forum in Lorient, we spoke with Kirree about the Island’s evolving economic landscape, its uniquely agile innovation ecosystem, and the value of deeper Celtic collaboration.

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For those unfamiliar, how would you describe the Isle of Man’s economy today — and how is innovation playing a role in its evolution?

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The Isle of Man’s economy is diverse, resilient, and increasingly focused on sustainable innovation. As the only entire nation designated a UNESCO Biosphere, the Island is uniquely positioned to balance economic growth and innovation with environmental stewardship. This designation does not impose mandates but inspires businesses to consider their environmental impact and align with a broader vision for sustainability.

Innovation is central to this evolution. From cleantech and digital sectors to sustainable finance and advanced manufacturing, the Island is fostering a future-ready economy. Government support, agile regulation, and a collaborative ecosystem make it an ideal test bed for new technologies and business models.

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What are some of the key sectors or industries where the Isle of Man is driving innovation or seeing exciting growth?

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We’re seeing economic growth through diversification, innovation and sustainability. The Innovation Challenge — this year focused on Data & AI, Fintech, and Cleantech — exemplifies how the Island encourages global collaboration and local impact.

Key growth sectors include:

• Financial Services & FinTech: With digital transformation and regulatory innovation attracting global interest.
• Digital & Emerging Technologies: Growth in AI, blockchain, and data-driven platforms is supported by a responsive environment.
• Cleantech & Sustainability: Significant momentum around net-zero, renewable energy, and carbon sequestration projects.
• Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering: High-value, export-led, and embracing smart tech.
• Agri-Food & Local Production: Home to internationally respected brands like Isle of Man Creamery, our food sector is growing its global reach while championing provenance.
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Who will be joining you on the panel, and what perspectives or experiences are they bringing from the Isle of Man's business and innovation landscape?
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I’m thrilled to be joined by an incredible group of innovators:

• Chris Kissack (Acclaim) – AI and space tech thought leader, active in startup mentoring and ethical innovation.
• Brendon Kenny (Ellanstone) – Strategist connecting data, sustainability, and digital inclusion.
• Tim Sayers (Isle of Man Creamery) – Driving innovation and sustainability in one of our most iconic food brands.
• Chris Lee (Own-Group) – A fintech entrepreneur reinventing homeownership through digital tools.

Also joining the delegation:

• Shelley Langan-Newton (SQR) – Winner of the Isle of Man’s Interceltic Startup Challenge 2025, Shelley is building intelligent identity infrastructure with global impact.
• Capt. Lee Clarke (Isle of Man Maritime) – Maritime champion with deep sector knowledge, advocating for sustainability, youth opportunity, and seafarer welfare.

Together, they embody the Island’s unique blend of heritage, creativity, and global ambition.

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How would you describe the Isle of Man’s unique approach to innovation — what sets it apart from larger or more well-known startup ecosystems?
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Agility, connectivity, and community spirit. Entrepreneurs can engage directly with policymakers, regulators, and agencies — often within days, not months. That makes the Isle of Man an unusually responsive environment for testing and scaling ideas.

We also benefit from a strong sense of identity and shared purpose, which fosters values-led innovation. It’s not about following trends — it’s about solving real problems in ways that reflect who we are.

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In your view, how can Celtic regions like the Isle of Man benefit from stronger cross-border Celtic business collaboration?

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Celtic regions share more than cultural heritage — we share resilience, creativity, and a sense of community. By working more closely together, we can pool resources, unlock shared infrastructure, and amplify our global presence.

Whether through innovation exchanges, joint ventures, or ecosystem partnerships, there’s huge potential to build a Celtic innovation corridor. The Interceltic Business Forum is helping make that vision real — bringing together ideas, people, and ambition to create lasting regional impact.

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Join us in Lorient

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Whether it’s AI, cleantech, or agri-food, the Isle of Man is building a globally connected economy rooted in its values — and leaders like Kirree Gooberman are helping shape that story. As she prepares to share the Island’s vision in Lorient this August, she reminds us that innovation isn’t just about disruption — it’s about collaboration, inclusion, and place-based purpose.

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👉 Join us at the Interceltic Business Forum on August 4th to connect with Kirree and other leaders shaping the future of the Celtic business community.

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