Inspiring Solutions winners announced at IASP Beijing

Inspiring Solutions is IASP’s flagship knowledge-sharing initiative that highlights innovative practices in the management of Science and Technology Parks, Innovation Districts and Areas of Innovation management. It showcases creative ideas that have a real impact, builds a global library of best practices, and aims to inspire other members around the world. 

This year, the programme received 30 submissions from 20 countries across the globe. From these, a panel of experts shortlisted 10 finalists, and the final three winners were chosen through a vote by IASP members. 

The announcement took place during the Gala Dinner, a wonderful evening organised by our host Z-Park. The Inspiring Awards Ceremony was kindly sponsored by IKP Knowledge Park, whose support helps put a spotlight on these innovative solutions across the network. 

We are proud to announce the 2025 Inspiring Solutions winners: 

First Place: Linköping Science Park, Sweden 
“The city as a testbed: testing green ideas in Linköping” 
Testbed Vouchers enable SMEs to test climate-smart innovations in real-life municipal environments. Through fast funding and strong public-private collaboration, companies can validate and scale sustainable solutions that support Linköping's goal of becoming climate neutral by 2030.   

Second Place: KACST, Saudi Arabia 
“KACST Venture Program (KVP): Implementation of innovation hexagon” 
KACST STP design and implement a deep tech commercialization program (KVP) using an extended Triple Helix model. In addition to Government, Academia, and Industry, this "Innovation Hexagon" model incorporates the Entrepreneurial community, Investment community, and NGOs to accelerate lab-to-market success and deliver real-world impact.   

Third Place: Solution Innovation Districts, Nigeria 
“1 million anambra digital tribe initiative” 
1 Million Anambra Digital Tribe (1MADT) is a free digital skills training initiative by the Anambra State Government's Solution Innovation District, aiming to upskill 1 million people. It empowers youth, women, and informal workers through online learning, driving jobs, startups, and inclusive economic transformation across the state. 

Congratulations to our 2025 winners! Your work is not only transforming your local communities but also serving as an inspiration to innovation ecosystems worldwide. 

To explore previous winners and discover more innovative practices, visit the Inspiring Solutions best practices repository here.