Putting Cornwall on the Global Stage: An Interview with Nicola Lloyd

As the Interceltic Business Forum prepares to make its debut in Cornwall, Nicola Lloyd—Director of Cornwall Trade & Investment—shares why this moment matters. From unlocking the potential of the Cornish diaspora to positioning the region as a leader in renewables, critical minerals, and the space economy, she outlines a bold vision for Cornwall’s place in the world.

In this interview, Nicola reflects on the power of Celtic collaboration, the industries drawing global attention, and how Cornwall can grow without losing sight of its cultural soul.

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Why will it be important for the Interceltic Business Forum to take place in Cornwall, and what will it mean for the region’s economic outlook?

Hosting the Interceltic Business Forum in Cornwall will be a significant milestone. It will highlight that Cornwall isn’t just a beautiful place to live or visit—it’s also a destination for business, innovation, trade, and investment. By bringing Celtic business leaders and partners to the region, the forum will help re-position Cornwall as forward-thinking and ambitious.

It will mark a step change in how the region sees itself, and how it’s seen by others—signalling confidence in its economic future and opening doors to new opportunities.

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What shared business challenges or opportunities will the Celtic nations face, and how will collaboration help?

The Celtic nations have a lot in common economically—from rural challenges and connectivity issues, to talent retention and the need to build more resilient local economies. But we also share opportunities, particularly in areas like renewables, creative industries, tourism, and food and drink. Working together will allow these regions to share ideas, pool expertise, and present a stronger voice on the national and international stage.

There’s real potential for collaboration to drive innovation, attract investment, and support sustainable growth across the Celtic fringe.

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What’s the potential of the Cornish diaspora, and how could they be better engaged to support Cornwall’s future?

The Cornish diaspora holds huge potential. Across the world, there are people with Cornish heritage and strong emotional ties to the region who would welcome the chance to reconnect and contribute through our new Global Cornish network. In the years ahead, Cornwall will benefit from engaging this community more actively—whether that’s through cultural exchange, mentoring, investment, or promoting Cornwall abroad.

By building stronger links with the diaspora, Cornwall can tap into a wealth of goodwill, global networks, and practical support that could make a real difference to both its economy and cultural life.

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What sectors or industries in Cornwall will be attracting the most international interest, and why?

Several sectors in Cornwall are already on the radar internationally and are generating interest:

Renewable energy – Cornwall’s natural resources make it a prime location for floating offshore wind, geothermal and marine energy projects.

Critical minerals – With demand growing for ethically sourced materials like lithium, tungsten and tin, Cornwall’s mining heritage is gaining a new, sustainable future.

Creative and digital industries – The region’s strong digital infrastructure and inspiring landscape attracts and generates entrepreneurs linked to the creative sector.

Space and data - With substantial investments in research and development, and facilities like Spaceport Cornwall and Goonhilly Earthstation, Cornwall is positioning itself as a hub for cutting-edge space and data enterprises.

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How will Cornwall balance protecting its cultural identity with growing its international trade and investment?

Cornwall’s cultural identity is incredibly important. Rather than being seen as something to preserve quietly in the background, it is a distinctive asset that can help set Cornwall apart in a global market. Cornwall’s culture enhances what makes the region special—showing that Cornwall can be both proudly local and globally connected.

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Want to be part of the conversation?

Join us at the Interceltic Business Forum in Cornwall on April 25th and be part of the growing movement to harness the power of community for regional growth.

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👉 Register now to attend

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