Get to know the 3 candidates shortlisted for IASP World Conference 2028

Our tradition to host a World Conference in a different location each year is a longstanding commitment to maintaining a global perspective, learning from local innovation ecosystems and connecting with peers worldwide.

After a much awaited deliberation by our International Board this year, three candidates have been shortlisted to host the 45th IASP World Conference in 2028, with the final choice determined by full members at the IASP General Assembly during this year’s world conference hosted by Sophia Antipolis, France this October.

The three destinations and their respective local organisers are Melbourne (Australia) with RMIT University in partnership with Melbourne Innovation Districts, Campinas (Brazil) with Unicamp Science and Technology Park and Vizag (India) with Andhra Pradesh Medtech Zone-AMTZ. Learn more about their ecosystems, meet them in person at our October conference and start discovering your preferred destination by diving into the below, as well as upcoming information shared by the candidates:

(listed alphabetically by country) 

Australia, Melbourne - RMIT University 

IASP member Melbourne Innovation District is a partnership made up of the City of Melbourne, RMIT University and the University of Melbourne.  RMIT University is located in the heart of Melbourne’s urban ecosystem and works as an integral part of the urban community, creating spaces and opportunities for students, researchers, and partners to build impactful solutions for the future. 

Australia is a diverse country that has one of the highest foreign-born populations in the world, which makes it an international and multicultural ecosystem. Located in the southeastern part of the mainland Australia, within the state of Victoria, Melbourne is the most populous city in the country after Sydney. Its abundant natural resources and international trade relations are one of the highlights of this country, along with being one of the highest per capita incomes globally.

Brazil, Campinas - Unicamp Science and Technology Park

Unicamp Science and Technology Park is located in the Unicamp University campus, bridging innovation and academia in one ecosystem. The Park’s environment has been designed to allow students and research to collaborate with incubated companies, startups and R&D labs. 

Brazil is the largest country in South America and is home to several science parks, incubators and other innovation actors. The country is one of the world’s major exporters of various agricultural goods, mineral resources and manufactured products. Located in southeastern Brazil, Campinas is 84 kms from the city of Sao Paulo, and belongs to the same state. The state originated from coffee farming and railroad expansion in the 19th century, which transformed the zone into the financial and industrial  heart of the country. Campinas stood out and developed as one of the main logistics centres in Brazil, attracting companies and research centres.

India, Vizag - Andhra Pradesh Medtech Zone (AMTZ) 

AMTZ is located in Nadupuru, village area of Vizag, India and focused in medical devices. It is spread across 110 hectares aprox, and has over 10 manufacturing units. It offers comprehensive facilities for design, development, prototyping, and testing, along with expert guidance to help manufacturers navigate regulatory requirements. The zone also fosters collaboration between domestic and international companies, promoting research and development in the medical technology sector. It established as the country's first such facility and played a significant role during the COVID-19 pandemic by supplying equipment including oxygen concentrators, ventilators, and PCR kits.

India is the most populous country in the world with a population of 1.4 billion. Its religious and language diversity makes it an inclusive and culturally diverse destination. Vizag is the most populous city in the state of Andhra Pradesh and known for its buddhist sites and natural environment.  

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The final decision on who will be hosting the 45th World Conference will be determined by a Full Member’s vote during the General Assembly at our upcoming World Conference in France.  

We would like to offer our sincerest gratitude to all candidates for preparing their #IASP2028bids, and look forward to the results. Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Youtube for more updates on the candidates and events.