Looking ahead to IASP 2026 – Sophia Antipolis, France

In 2026, the IASP World Conference will be heading to the French Riviera – Sophia Antipolis! A historical location, as Sophia Antipolis is known as Europe’s first Science and Technology Park and was also the first host in the history of IASP World Conferences, back in 1984. The Sophia Antipolis team proudly received the IASP conference flag from Z-Park at the Beijing World Conference.

The event will take place from 27-30 October 2026, and will bring our global community together in the beautiful setting of the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes, while also giving delegates the opportunity to explore Sophia Antipolis during technical tours and other activities taking place at the heart of the innovation ecosystem. 

In 2026, the event will shine a spotlight on innovation that puts people and the planet first, exploring how Science Parks, Innovation Districts, Areas of Innovation and other innovation spaces are evolving to meet the challenges of sustainable development, digital transformation, and global collaboration. With ‘Tech for Humanity: Shaping values for a human-centric future” as the theme, the conference will explore the role of innovation ecosystems in shaping future-ready cities, driving technological excellence, and creating inclusive, high value employment opportunities. 

“Impact” will be a key word, and sub-themes will address green innovation, AI and emerging technologies, inclusive entrepreneurship, mobility and the intersection of research, business and public policy. 

France, and particularly the Cote d’Azur region, is home to one of the most vibrant innovation ecosystems in Europe. Sophia Antipolis brings together over 2500 companies, 43000 professionals and thousands of students, all embedded in a green campus dedicated to collaboration.  

This year in Beijing, as Bronze sponsor of the event, the Sophia Antipolis delegation gave a taste of what awaits in 2026 from their booth in the exhibition space. During the closing ceremony Jean-Pierre Mascarelli, president of Sophia Antipolis Foundation took the stage to extend an invitation to all IASP members to join us next year before receiving the IASP World Conference flag from this year’s host Z-Park. 

The IASP team and local organisers are already working to ensure an inspiring and memorable programme, with plans for technical tours to cutting-edge research centres and tech hubs, as well as a gala dinner that truly impress our delegates. Attendees will enjoy French hospitality, local cuisine, and the chance to explore the cultural richness of the French Riviera. 

Stay tuned for the super early bird registration opening soon, and for the official Call for Contributions, which will invite IASP members and other innovation actors to help shape the content of the 2026 event.