IASP 2026: all the latest news about the upcoming IASP World Conference

Preparations for the 43rd IASP World Conference, taking place from 27-30 October 2026, continue shaping up and well. The IASP team recently travelled to the French Riviera to meet with the Sophia Antipolis Science and Technology Park team and review conference venues across the region, ensuring all logistical details are in place for a great experience for the global IASP community gathering in this iconic location. 

Here’s a look at the latest updates as preparations continue to take shape ahead of #IASPSophiaAntipolis. 

Theme and programme 

The conference theme, "Tech for Humanity: Shaping Values for a Human-Centric Future", reflects the growing importance of ensuring that technological innovation serves people, communities, and society as a whole. Over four days at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes and Sophia Antipolis Science & Technology Park, experts and practitioners from more than 35 countries across the globe will come together to exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore how innovation ecosystems can drive progress while upholding ethical values. 

The programme will address key questions around ethics and responsible innovation, with sessions covering topics such as responsible AI, climate action, inclusive innovation, ethical entrepreneurship and the role of innovation ecosystems as drivers of cross-border collaboration. 

Have a look at the conference programme and the speakers joining us.  

Social events  

Social events will take place across iconic venues in Sophia Antipolis and Antibes, creating additional opportunities for informal exchange throughout the conference. From the very first night, delegates will immediately immerse themselves in the local innovation ecosystem vibes, with a Welcome Reception on the rooftop of the recently inaugurated Alpha Building in Sophia Antipolis.  

A bit more of a sporty setting for the Informal Dinner, where we’ll head to the Azur Arena, home to the Antibes Sharks basketball team, while the enchanting setting for the Gala Dinner will be the marina at Bastion Saint-Jaume in Port Vauban, Antibes. 

Technical and cultural tours 

On 27th October, right before the conference officially begins, delegates will have the opportunity to spend a full day at the core of Sophia Antipolis Science and Technology Park’s innovation landscape.  

Technical tours will focus on key areas including options such as artificial intelligence, smart cities, cybersecurity, digital sovereignty and life sciences, with visits to local startups, as well as leading organisations including Amadeus IT Group, Maison de l’IA, SAP Labs, ETSI, Orange Labs, Kyndryl, IPMC and others. A dedicated tour of Monaco will also showcase real-world applications of AI in transport and energy systems, with a  tour of SMEG's energy and infrastructure systems.  

Check out all available tech tours here. 

And after the full immersion in knowledge sharing and innovation, why not disconnect and treat yourself with some cultural experiences to enrich your stay? Tour options include a gourmet tour in old Antibes, a visit to the majestic Grimaldi Castle to discover Picasso’s legacy, a journey within the art of fragrance in Grasse, wine and olive oil tastings and many more. Check all the options here and make sure you plan some extra time in the French Riviera to enjoy these experiences! 

Secure your spot today 

With preparations well underway, the 43rd IASP World Conference is already set to be a landmark event for our global innovation community. Early Bird discounts end on 1st July - secure your place today and join us: https://www.iaspworldconference.com/register/