Three candidates have been shortlisted to organise IASP 2027

IASP is proud of our longstanding tradition of having our World Conferences held in a different, exciting location around the world every year. This underscores our commitment to maintaining a global perspective and connecting with our international members.

This year, after the much-awaited deliberation by our Board of Directors, we are delighted to announce the three candidates to host the 2027 IASP World Conference have been selected. All shortlisted candidates will be in Beijing in September to present their bids at the conference, and the winning bid will be announced after the votes are counted. 

Though we’re still quite a few months away, we would like to share an overview of the three potential destinations and their respective local hosts, listed alphabetically by city, so you can learn more about their vibrant innovation communities who are excited to welcome our delegates in 2027 (and if you are a full member of IASP, you can start making up your mind to cast your vote later this year!).

Chiang Mai, Thailand —Chiang Mai University Science and Technology Park (STeP)

With a name that translates to “new city” in Thai, Chiang Mai is a city that unites tradition with modernity, mixing historic temples and innovation ecosystems. Set amidst the mountains of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is one of the largest city in Thailand, and its location on the banks of the Ping River has contributed to its historic significance in the region and to its appeal to nature enthusiasts.

Chiang Mai University Science and Technology Park (STeP) is a leading innovation hub in northern Thailand, driving collaboration between academia, startups, and industry. With a focus on technology transfer, entrepreneurship, and regional economic development, STeP supports emerging businesses through incubators, research initiatives, and industry partnerships. The park is a key player in advancing smart city solutions, digital transformation, and sustainable innovation, reinforcing Chiang Mai’s position as a growing center for technological and economic progress in Southeast Asia.

Dhahran, Saudi Arabia —Dhahran Techno Valley

Dhahran is located in the Eastern Province (close to Qatar and the Emirates) and is home to Dhahran Techno Valley (DTV), a prominent hub for technological innovation and research. This city is known for its warm climate and for being a major administrative center for the oil industry in Saudi Arabia, as it is close to the site of the first major discovery of oil in the region in the1930s.

DTV is strategically located within the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals KFUPM Campus. A key driver of Saudi Arabia’s knowledge economy, DTV hosts R&D centers for global energy and technology leaders, enabling collaboration between academia, industry, and startups, and specialises in the fields of energy and sustainability. The university campus spreads 900 acres and boasts a bustling academic environment, unique architecture, and planted greenery, which fosters favorable conditions for continuous learning and research opportunities.

Norrköping, Sweden — Norrköping Science Park

Norrköping, Sweden is home to Norrköping Science Park, a thriving hub for innovation and technology, connecting cutting-edge research with industry expertise to drive regional and international development. Norrköping is nestled in the bay of Bråviken on the Baltic Sea and is known for its industrial heritage.With its picturesque waterfront, historical industrial landscapes, and thriving cultural scene, Norrköping seamlessly blends history with modern innovation, making it the ideal location for Norrköping Science Park.

With a strong focus on digitalization, visualization, and smart city solutions, the park enables collaboration between startups, established businesses, and academia, particularly Linköping University. As a key player in Sweden’s innovation ecosystem, Norrköping Science Park contributes to the country's reputation as a leader in sustainable and tech-driven advancements.

Voting to take place during the IASP General Assembly

The final decision on the host for the 2027 World Conference will be made through a member vote during the General Assembly on the 18th of September at our upcoming World Conference in Beijing. If you’d like to experience the voting in person, please register for our conference and join us there.

We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to all the candidates for preparing their proposals and look forward to the results of our members’ votes later this year. Please be sure to follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube for updates and more news on the candidates!