IASP World Conference 2025 concludes in Beijing with global vision for innovation

The 42nd IASP World Conference on Science Parks and Areas of Innovation took place in Beijing from 16-19 September, bringing together close to 1,000 delegates from 97 countries around the world to exchange knowledge, share case studies, and explore the future of innovation ecosystems. 

Tech tours and training to warm up the engines  

Ahead of this year’s event, delegates were treated to a series of dynamic technical tours across the city’s renowned innovation districts, offering a first-hand look into how Beijing is cultivating the future of science and technology. 

Delegates had also a chance to join our customary pre-conference Training Seminar, which paved the way for newcomers to our industry to get ahead of their learning curve on the fundamentals of AOI/ID/STP management.  

With seven different modules presented by experts from our network, attendees had a chance to learn more about models of organised innovation spaces (including a special focus on innovation districts and how they integrate within urban environments), the importance of collaborative ecosystems to support startups and business incubation, the importance of delivering high-value services, the role of communication strategies, as well as the key role of university collaboration and the various governance structures available. 

Elevating excellence with global knowledge sharing  

The Opening Ceremony on Wednesday formally inaugurated the conference, with welcome speeches from IASP President Lena Miranda and IASP CEO Ebba Lund, as well as addresses from Mr Jin Wei, Vice Mayor of Beijing and Lyu Xianzhi, Director of the Torch Center. During the opening, colleagues from Z-Park also had a chance to present their initiative for global collaboration which resonated through the community, leaving a legacy for the event. 

An impressive launch ceremony kicked off the scientific programme, encompassing close to 100 speakers and moderators from 35 countries. Three days of plenary and parallel sessions gave our delegates the chance to explore and discuss a wide range of topics, including the transformation of urban areas through innovation, the importance of people-centred development in shaping future cities, finance, infrastructure, open international ecosystems, cross-border collaboration, smart city strategies, the economic impact of innovation hubs, orchestration of innovation districts, and the impact of artificial intelligence on communities.  

The conference also allowed us to reflect on the future of our industry and society, with reflections on what’s ahead for the coming two decades and a presentation of new global trends in our industry, presented by IASP CEO Ebba Lund and based on the results of the most recent IASP Global Survey

Community building, elections and ceremonies 

The programme also had plenty of opportunities for networking, with social events that brought together delegates in iconic places such as the Great Wall of China for an unforgettable dinner under the stars.  

Members also had a few special moments of their own. New members who joined the association since last year’s conference were officially welcomed to our community with a special gathering and a formal recognition during the gala dinner, while the brightest minds in our community were acknowledged during the gala dinner, when the IASP Inspiring Solutions Awards Ceremony revealed the winners of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes in our flagship competition that highlights innovative practices in the management of AOIs/IDs/STPs.  

Make sure you read more about our three winners - Linköping Science Park (Sweden), King Abdulaziz City of Science and Technology (Saudi Arabia), and Solution Innovation District (Nigeria) and read more about the competition, the finalists and the winners here. 

Last but not least, our World Conference also marked the renewal of our Executive Board and other Board members, and the election of our IASP 2027 destination… our global innovation community will meet in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia!   

The conference concluded with a ceremonial handover of the IASP flag to Sophia Antipolis, host of the 43rd World Conference next year. Book the dates in your diaries and get ready for exploring the French Riviera and their vibrant innovation community on 27-30 October 2026.   

While the 42nd IASP World Conference in Beijing came to an end, the importance of collaboration across borders, sectors, and disciplines that emerged will stay with us and all contribute to reinforcing the role of science parks and areas of innovation as drivers of sustainable, inclusive, and forward-looking development.