IASP Chinese members in the spotlight through two prominent forums this Spring

As the global network uniting innovation spaces around the world, we proudly represent members from nearly 80 countries, and in anticipation of our World Conference in Beijing on 16-19 September, this year marks a special opportunity to reconnect with our peers in this country with a rich history and a rapidly evolving present, particularly in innovation and technological advancements.  

Earlier this month, building up to the world conference, two major events brought together innovation leaders and highlighted the growing importance of international science park cooperation. 

From May 28th to 29th, the IASP Chinese Member Salon themed "Gathering Strength · Joint Creation" was held at the Hangzhou Technology Transfer Center, attracting more than 40 guests including Chinese IASP peers, leading university science parks, and hi-tech companies. The event was co-hosted by the IASP China Office, Hangzhou Yuhang Sci-tech Innovation Park Association, and Hangzhou Normal University National Science Park. 

IASP Consulting Director and Past President, Herbert Chen, delivered a keynote speech on global science park development trends, emphasizing that science parks have evolved into a mature industry. He noted "More than 90% of surveyed science parks have been operating for more than 10 years, and they continue to play a vital role in promoting technology commercialisation, cultivating innovative talents, and supporting startup growth", emphasising the need for Chinese science parks to maintain openness and accelerate reform. 

The forum featured presentations from leading Chinese science park representatives, including Jun Li from Beihang University Science Park, who highlighted the transformation journey from laboratory achievements to market-ready products, and Xuewu Chang from HUST National University Science Park, who shared their demand-oriented industry-university-research innovation model. 

Building on this momentum, on June 12, our CEO Ebba Lund participated in the Belt and Road Forum on the Cooperation, Innovation & Development of Science and Technology Parks held in Chengdu. Co-hosted by multiple government agencies, the forum explored international science park cooperation and technology transfer opportunities. 

During her keynote speech, Ebba introduced IASP's global network and shared some insights from the IASP Global Survey on international collaboration strategies and the importance of strategic networking for internationalisation, highlighting the role of innovation actors in driving such efforts towards making their companies global. The events underscore IASP's presence in China, culminating in the upcoming IASP World Conference co-hosted with Beijing Municipality and Zhongguancun Science Park (Z-Park) in September, demonstrating the ongoing partnership between IASP and China's innovation community.