Beyond the conference programme: the IASP network at work in Sophia Antipolis

While the main conference programme provided a shared space for the IASP network to meet, a number of smaller gatherings offered members the opportunity to focus on specific topics, exchange updates and discuss ongoing work. With representatives from across the network present in the same location, the conference provided the perfect opportunity to hold a series of smaller meetings, taking advantage of having so much of the network in one place. 

IASP Board meeting 

The IASP Board of Directors held a strategic session to review developments over the past months and identify priorities for the year ahead. Discussions will continue at the next extended Board meeting, scheduled for February 2027 at IASP Headquarters in Málaga. 

IASP European Division  

With the conference taking place in France, European members had the ideal opportunity to meet face to face. The session included updates from IASP CEO Ebba Lund and European Division President Agnes von Matuschka, followed by an open discussion in which participants shared suggestions and ideas on how to further develop the Division and strengthen its impact. 

IASP Innovation Districts Alliance  

Members of the IASP Innovation Districts Alliance, coordinated by Josep Piqué (La Salle Technova, Spain), met to exchange updates and review the joint projects under way since their previous gathering in Beijing in 2025. 

Signing of MOUs  

The World Conference also serves as a stage to formalise new partnerships through the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements establish a framework for future cooperation and reflect the international connections being developed across the IASP network in between events.  

During this year’s conference, TusHoldings (China) signed an MoU with Botswana Innovation Hub (Botswana), while TusPark Nanjing Science Park (China) signed an agreement with CMU-STEP (Thailand). 

WAINOVA  

Representatives of WAINOVA, an informal alliance of innovation networks, also took the opportunity to meet in Cannes. With several members attending the IASP World Conference, the gathering provided a space to exchange ideas and discuss shared goals. 

Groups and national delegations 

The conference also provided an opportunity for national groups to come together. Large delegations from Canada and Czechia met with the IASP Executive Board to discuss their respective plans, ongoing projects and future developments within the network., while enjoying the rich content programme of the event.