Cast your vote: IASP Inspiring Solutions 2024 finalists unveiled

Inspiring Solutions is IASP's knowledge-sharing programme designed to highlight innovative initiatives and exemplary practices in science parks and areas of innovation globally. This programme amplifies the impact of their work in supporting businesses and communities.

This year, an impressive array of entries was received, showcasing bright ideas from around the world. Our expert panel has selected 10 outstanding finalists representing Brazil, China, Estonia, Mexico, Pakistan, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Türkiye, and the UK.

Now, it's up to IASP members to vote for their top three solutions. The main contacts from each member organisation received an email with personalised link through which to vote. If members have not received this, please contact communication@iasp.ws. 

Voting closes on Friday 6 September.

The winners will be revealed during a special ceremony at the IASP World Conference in Nairobi on 26 September. Join us for the announcement and to celebrate these remarkable achievements!

Here are the 10 finalists (listed alphabetically by organisation):

Bilisim Vadisi, Türkiye, “Robotaxi Passenger Autonomous Vehicle Competition”

A competition fostering technological innovation by engaging university and high school teams in developing autonomous driving technologies. It enhances participants' skills and career prospects while contributing to Türkiye's technology ecosystem and connecting young talent with industry professionals.

ELIDZ-STP, South Africa, “Prototype development support programme"

A programme that aids Eastern Cape entrepreneurs by leveraging sector-specific innovation opportunities. It enhances local manufacturing capabilities, supports over 520 entrepreneurs, and develops prototypes to attract investment, fostering skills in 4IR, IP, and other advanced technologies.

La Salle Technova Barcelona, Spain, “SDG's Challenges”

An initiative engaging university students in developing entrepreneurial projects aligned with the UN SDGs. Using the Candy Innovation Model, students work in multidisciplinary teams, fostering social consciousness, creativity, and collaboration, with industry mentors and companies supporting the initiative.

National Science and Technology Park, Pakistan, "Rising Stars Startup Competition”

A competition promoting diversity in the innovation ecosystem by supporting marginalised and underrepresented entrepreneurs, including women and minority groups. The program provides training, mentorship, networking, and seed funding, increasing representation and fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial environment.

Research and Technology Innovation Park, Mexico, “Research Summer at PIIT"

Impactful internships for higher education students, fostering STEM career interests and integrating prospective researchers into the workforce. This program enhances R&D centres' capabilities while cultivating essential skills and facilitating new academic partnerships.

Surrey Research Park, UK, “Surrey Women's Entrepreneurship Network”

A network that supports women entrepreneurs by enhancing access to funding, providing investor-readiness training, and fostering mentorship and allyship. SWEN has grown to 152 members, organised successful events, and connected women with investors and mentors, driving gender equity in innovation.

Technology Park Ljubljana, Slovenia, “Community Building Academy Ljubljana”

An academy uniting STP community builders to enhance commercial services, brand visibility, and international cooperation. This initiative fosters entrepreneurial communities, leverages global business opportunities, and strengthens STPs as business development hubs.

tecnoPARQ (Technology Park of Viçosa), Brazil, "Inova Lácteos Acceleration Program”

A program supporting startups in the milk production chain with training, networking, and financial backing. It has impacted over 600 individuals, developed 50+ solutions, and awarded 13 companies with financial support and incubation, enhancing innovation and sustainability in the dairy sector.

Tehnopol Science and Business Park, Estonia, “Innovation Leaders Club”

A community fostering collaboration between corporate innovators and startups to drive innovation. With nearly 80 members, ILC enhances R&D investment and product development, promoting systematic innovation and open innovation strategies through meetups, matchmaking, workshops, and collaborative tools.

Zhongguancun Science Park Changping Park Management Committee, China “Biopharmaceutical Industry Incubation Service Platform“

A platform accelerating biopharmaceutical R&D through refined lab management and technical services. It integrates advanced technologies and international resources to drive technological breakthroughs and foster a robust innovation ecosystem in Beijing's biopharmaceutical health sector.

Full details of their innovative ideas and implementations can be found here and in the accompanying playlist. Join us at IASP Nairobi to discover who the three winners are!