International science parks forum

The IASP World Conference is the biggest conference for Science and Technology parks. More than 400 delegates attended the opening session, along with entrepreneurs, tech leaders and policymakers.

George Walker, Park Manager, Pentlands Science Park was one of eight delegates from the UK who attended IASP 2014, the 31st world conference of International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation, in Doha from 19-22 October.

The conference aims were to explore challenges and opportunities of innovation management, with experts and policymakers setting the agenda for science and technology hubs around the world.

The forum was hosted by Qatar Foundation Research & Development’s Qatar Science & Technology Park which had organised an excellent event of speakers and workshop sessions over the four days. Keynote Opening Address was given by Chad Hurley, Co-founder of YouTube. Attendees had the chance to participate in the conference programme, network and discuss best practice and new thinking, and re-acquaint themselves with colleagues from around the world.

The Gala Dinner was held at the Museum of Islamic Art, a stunning building on the banks of the Arabian Gulf.

Next year’s conference will be held in Beijing, and Moscow was announced as the successful bidder to host the event in 2016.