Norrköping Could Host the IASP World Conference – One of Three Nominees

IASP (International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation) is a global organization that brings together over 300 science parks and innovation clusters in more than 75 countries. The organization works to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration between industry, academia, and the public sector. The annual world conference is a key meeting place for leaders in technology and innovation from around the world.

Norrköping’s advancement to the final selection is a recognition of the city’s growing position in technology and innovation. With a strong connection to Linköping University, a leading focus on visualization technology, printed and organic electronics, and smart cities, as well as a strong innovation environment through Norrköping Science Park, the city has positioned itself as an ideal location for a conference of this magnitude.

I want to start by thanking everyone for their commitment, from those who submitted their support for our application to our partners. It feels fantastic that we have come this far, but now we must also make sure to reach the finish line. We can only succeed if we work together. Fortunately, collaboration is something we excel at in this region, so I have no doubts, says Jonas Nilson, CEO of Norrköping Science Park.

Norrköping Science Park, in collaboration with East Sweden Convention Bureau, is behind the city’s application. A total of 19 letters of support from businesses, academia, and public organizations were submitted – an unusually high number that demonstrates the strong engagement in bringing the conference to Sweden.

As a global leader in technology and sustainability supporting the energy transition, Siemens Energy in Sweden supports Norrköping’s proposal to host the IASP World Conference. This event represents a unique opportunity to highlight the innovation and collaboration that define our region and Sweden as a whole, says Åsa Lyckström, Head of Sustainability and Executive Board Member of Siemens Energy AB.

Joanna Åhman and Jenny Irwin, Business Developers from East Sweden Convention Bureau and Jonas Nilson, CEO and Klara Ewald, Process Leader, from Norrköping Science Park are the people behind the application.

If Norrköping wins the vote in September, the conference will place the city at the center of the global innovation scene and attract several hundred international decision-makers, researchers, and entrepreneurs.

This conference is clear proof that even a small town has the ability to challenge and compete with the biggest players. Its success is rooted in exceptional expertise and outstanding collaboration at the local, regional, and national levels, driven by passion and vision. A conference of this magnitude does not only create value during the event itself – its effects extend far beyond its conclusion, leading to long-lasting networks and collaborative projects that continue to grow and evolve, says Jenny Irwin, business developer at East Sweden Convention Bureau.

The next step in the process is to participate in IASP activities until the decision is made and to spread information in favor of Norrköping and Sweden as the host city and country.

Finally, we would like to take the opportunity to thank all those who have shown their support for our application:

• Region Östergötland
• Linköping Municipality
• Norrköping Municipality
• Linköping University
• Vinnova
• SISP (Swedish Incubators & Science Parks)
• Holmen
• Saab
• Siemens Energy
• Everon Sweden
• Corem
• HiQ
• Stadium
• Port of Norrköping
• Linköping City Airport
• Norrköping Airport
• Voyado
• RISE Research Institutes of Sweden
• LEAD Business Incubator