Norfolk & Suffolk to unveil AI avatar and 60+ investment opportunities at UKREiiF 2026

Norfolk and Suffolk will showcase more than 60 major investment opportunities at the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), taking place in Leeds from 19-21 May 2026.

The event brings together more than 16,000 investors, developers, local authorities and business leaders from across the UK. With a dedicated Norfolk & Suffolk Pavilion and a packed programme of events, the two counties will highlight why the area is one of the country’s most exciting places for investment and growth.

Visitors to the pavilion will also meet “Penny”, an interactive AI avatar designed to answer questions about the region’s economy, workforce and business strengths.

Developed by Suffolk-based SKC Studios in Haverhill, Penny uses regional data and insights to help investors quickly understand the opportunities across Norfolk and Suffolk. The avatar showcases the innovation, creativity and digital expertise already thriving in the area.

Norfolk and Suffolk's joint investment offer includes a diverse, investment‑ready portfolio of strategic sites spanning commercial development for key sectors, housing and major regeneration opportunities.

The region is already playing a nationally significant role in clean energy, advanced manufacturing and global trade. It manages around a third of the UK’s offshore wind capacity and is home to nationally significant infrastructure including the Sizewell C nuclear development.

UKREiiF will also see the launch of a new joint growth proposition for Norfolk and Suffolk, outlining the two counties’ shared ambition and strengths. Visitors will be able to download it directly from the pavilion using a QR code.

The pavilion programme will feature a line-up of local business leaders discussing key topics like trade, infrastructure, town regeneration, energy investment and culture.

Suffolk Business Board Chair Lisa Perkins and Norfolk Business Board Chair Nick Steven‑Jones will attend alongside representatives from across the public and private sectors.

Lisa Perkins said:

“Suffolk and Norfolk combine a strong economy, productive partnerships and an investment-ready pipeline, making the region well placed for growth. We look forward to UKREiiF and the opportunity to engage in informed conversations with investors. Together with our avatar, ‘Penny’, we will be on hand to answer questions and highlight the opportunities across our region.”

Nick Steven-Jones said:

“Norwich and Ipswich both have fast growing economies and the businesses of the future are being built here. UKREiiF is a superb place to get in front of investors, developers and key decision-makers, and let them know about the opportunities on offer here.”