Science Parks and innovation centres from all over Europe met at IASP in Bolzano

Science parks, innovation environments and clusters from across Europe came together to strengthen collaboration and create new networks at the annual IASP conference, which this time took place in Bolzano. With a focus on sustainable innovation and green transition, the conference discussed how these innovation environments can play a key role in driving growth and development in Europe’s future ecosystems.

The International Association of Science Parks and Areas meets annually to share inspiration and experiences and to network. Opening speakers included Lena Miranda, CEO of Linköping Science Park and Chair of IASP.

– Just as I think it is fantastic how we bring science parks together in Sweden, it is now crucial that we strengthen this in a European context as well. In a time of great change, we need to collaborate more, accelerate development and see science parks as key players for innovation and growth in our ecosystems and EU countries.

15 representatives from Sweden’s innovation ecosystem were present. Among them was Anna Mård, CEO of Skellefteå Science City, who was also a Key Note speaker and emphasised how small cities can have a big impact – but also the importance of how science parks as neutral parties can bring together important power holders.

This year’s themes were sustainable manufacturing, digital technologies, green transition, and food and health.

– “It is important that we work together to increase the implementation of our fantastic innovations. This is where vibrant networks like IASP are invaluable,” says Stina Lantz, CEO of SISP.

Lessons learnt from this year’s conference include that Sweden’s science parks are generally of high quality when it comes to acting as innovation leaders in their respective regions, rather than, for example, renting out premises.