Hybrid meeting for IASP Board of Directors

IASP was delighted to welcome many of our International Board of Directors to Malaga, Spain, for the annual strategy meeting. Held remotely last year, this year saw a hybrid session, mixing in-person and remote debate via the big screen, reflecting the new ways we work and collaborate internationally.  

We always say that innovation happens when the right people get together, and IASP’s International Board Meeting is a microcosm of innovation in action and this year’s hybrid format gave our global experts the unique chance to get together, discuss IASP’s future strategy and to outline the path to follow as we adjust to a post-pandemic world.

Taking place from 14th – 15th February 2022, the annual strategy meeting was chaired by International President Herbert Chen (TusPark, China), who joined the meeting remotely from Beijing.

Mr Chen commented: “A good association creates a vibrant network where its members can communicate and exchange knowledge easily, and over the last 40 years, IASP has successfully built a truly global network of STPs and AOIs. IASP organises annual world conferences as well as regional activities, so that park managers get to know each other, collaborate and grow international relationships. As a service platform to global STPs and AOIs, IASP also needs continuous reform and innovation. Our Board members not only have a rich working experience in STPs and AOIs, but also have accumulated years of practical experience in management. I thank all the Board members as well as all the IASP members for sharing their ongoing inspiration, wisdom and operational solutions that help our association to thrive.”

Back to in-person events

Topics on the agenda included preparations for our upcoming World Conference IASP Seville, where we will explore “Green and digital change powered by innovation: the role of innovation ecosystems.” Taking place from 27-30 September 2022, it will focus on the leading role innovation ecosystems have to play in consolidating global efforts to fight climate change through innovative green and digital technologies.

The Board also made key decisions on our meeting destinations for the next two years – find out who will be our host in 2023 and the official candidates for 2024 here!

New research and industry knowledge

They also heard updates on two new research and industry knowledge projects under way, and this year will see two important developments. The latest edition of IASP’s Global Survey will be published in 2022, complete with data from global IASP members regarding the impact of COVID-19, pivots and adjustments our industry has experienced, as well as an overview of all the key trends affecting STPs and AOIs. IASP is also finalising an online Self-Assessment Tool for science parks, which will allow members to measure and benchmark their performance in their own regional context as well as at a global level. Developed by experts with years of experience, it will help STPs worldwide to demonstrate the value they bring to their cities and regions and back up their success stories with real quantifiable data.

Tour of local innovation hub

As well as participating in the meeting, Board members who travelled to Malaga also had the opportunity to take a technical tour of Malaga TechPark, including a visit to a Dekra testing facility to see their connected vehicle and electronic device testing in action. Dekra’s Jesús Hernández Domínguez gave them an exclusive look at the company’s highly specialised EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) and RF chambers. 

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