. Marking a historic milestone, this will be the first time the ASPA Annual Conference is hosted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The conference is expected to bring together leaders of science and technology parks, innovation ecosystems, universities, research institutions, industry representatives, policymakers, and innovation professionals from across Asia and beyond to exchange knowledge, strengthen international partnerships, and explore the future of research, technology, and innovation.

Founded in 1997, the Asian Science Park Association (ASPA) has served as one of the leading international networks promoting collaboration among science parks, innovation districts, universities, research organizations, and industry. Through its annual conference and various cooperative initiatives, ASPA continues to foster knowledge sharing, best practices, and regional innovation-driven development.

The theme of ASPA 2026, "Where Continents Converge: Science Parks Bridging Cultures for the Next Era of Innovation," highlights the strategic role of science and technology parks in connecting cultures, innovation ecosystems, and knowledge-based economies. Reflecting Saudi Arabia's unique geographical position at the crossroads of Asia and the Middle East, the conference will explore how science parks can serve as bridges for international collaboration and sustainable innovation.

The conference program will focus on four strategic themes:

Bridging Cultures: Promoting international collaboration, researcher mobility, talent exchange, and long-term cross-border partnerships.

Bridging Economies: Connecting markets, investment, and value chains to accelerate economic diversification and the development of emerging industries.

Bridging Research and Industry: Advancing technology commercialization, strengthening university-industry collaboration, and transforming research outcomes into successful ventures.

Bridging Today and Tomorrow: Preparing innovation ecosystems for emerging technologies while fostering long-term strategic planning for science parks and innovation districts.

The 29th ASPA Annual Conference will provide a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, showcasing successful experiences, expanding international networks, and fostering collaborative partnerships among science parks and innovation stakeholders worldwide. With the participation of science park leaders, universities, technology-based companies, investors, and policymakers, the conference is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of regional and global innovation ecosystems.
for more information about this event click on the following link:
https://www.kaust.edu.sa/events/aspa26/