Beyond the conference programme: the IASP network at work in Sophia Antipolis

While the main conference programme provided a shared space for the IASP network to meet, a number of smaller gatherings offered members the opportunity to focus on specific topics, exchange updates and discuss ongoing work. With representatives from across the network present in the same location, the conference provided the perfect opportunity to hold a series of smaller meetings, taking advantage of having so much of the network in one place. 

IASP Board meeting 

The IASP Board of Directors held a strategic session to review developments over the past months and identify priorities for the year ahead. Discussions will continue at the next extended Board meeting, scheduled for February 2027 at IASP Headquarters in Málaga. 

IASP European Division  

With the conference taking place in France, European members had the ideal opportunity to meet in person. The session included updates from European Division President Agnes von Matuschka and IASP CEO Ebba Lund, followed by an open discussion in which participants shared suggestions and ideas on how to further develop the Division and strengthen its impact. 

IASP Innovation Districts Alliance  

Members of the IASP group on innovation districts, coordinated by former IASP President Josep Piqué, met to exchange updates and content related to the ID model, as well as reviewing projects and collaborations under way since their previous gathering in Beijing in 2025.

Signing of MOUs  

The World Conference also serves as a stage to formalise new partnerships through the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements establish a framework for future cooperation and reflect the international connections being developed across the IASP network in between events.  

During this year’s conference, TusHoldings (China) signed an MoU with Botswana Innovation Hub (Botswana), while TusPark Nanjing Science Park (China) signed an agreement with CMU-STEP (Thailand). 

WAINOVA  

Representatives of the world alliance for innovation also took the opportunity to meet in Cannes. With several peer associations attending the IASP World Conference, the gathering provided a space to exchange ideas and discuss shared goals. 

Groups and national delegations 

The conference also provided an opportunity for national and regional groups to come together. Large delegations from locations such as Brazil, Thailand, Canada and Czechia, in addition of course to the IASP regional divisions, represented more informal opportunities for parallel discussions to discuss plans, ongoing projects and future developments while enjoying the overall world conference content and networking.