UKSPA

UKSPA Spring Conference 2025 - Exeter Science Park
2025-03-13 08:00 - 2025-03-14 17:00 UTC | Exeter Science Park, Science Park Centre, Babbage Way, Exeter Science Park,, Clyst Honiton, Exeter, Devon, EX5 2FN, United Kingdom
UKSPA members and stakeholders will gather at Exeter Science Park, on Thursday 13th and Friday 14th March, for the UKSPA Spring Conference 2025. The Conference will be hosted by Exeter Science Park, with the plenary sessions taking place at their dedicated conferencing facilities. There will also be opportunities to tour their state-of-the-art facilities.
Throughout the two days, leading speakers from the UKSPA network and key partners and stakeholders will discuss in-depth the challenges, opportunities, and innovative ways the sector continues to engage, inspire, and grow.
In addition to hearing from numerous key stakeholders in the South West, the Spring Conference will be looking at subjects including, Funding Beyond the Golden Triangle, Effective and Sustainable Incubation Ecosystems, The Journey to Net Zero Carbon Science, Sustainable Facilities and Infrastructure, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion- Inclusive Workspaces, The Procurement Challenge in Volatile Markets.
About Our Hosts
Exeter Science Park, located in the heart of the South West, situated close to the vibrant city of Exeter, is easily accessible from (J29)M5, Exeter Airport and the rail network. Located within a region known for its natural beauty and quality of life, Exeter Science Park offers a unique work environment that combines professional opportunities with a high quality of life for employees and their families. It is a premier destination for STEMM innovation and business growth. and offers state-of-the-art EPC A+ offices, laboratories, and coworking spaces with flexible leases.
Businesses benefit from business growth support, acceleration and innovation support through SetSquared Exeter/Exeter Innovation, networking events, conferencing facilities, and through its partnerships with local universities and research institutions, the park facilitates collaborations that bridge the gap between academic research and commercial applications. Sustainability is at the heart of Exeter Science Park.
The Park provides sustainable office and lab space and a commitment to a net zero carbon footprint, encouraging the use of sustainable transport wherever possible. Both the Ada Lovelace and George Parker Bidder Buildings at the Park are net zero carbon. The new voco Zeal Hotel is a sustainable net zero carbon hotel and will be the conference hotel for the Spring Conference.
Conference Programme
The outline Conference Programme will be available to download shortly.
Directions By Car and Train
Travelling by Car: located strategically at the intersection of the South West’s major north-south (M5 and A38/A380) and east-west (A30) roads, within three miles of Exeter International Airport and within five miles of Exeter St David’s mainline railway station.
Visitor Parking
Access to the Science Park site is via a secure barrier system and car parking operates a number plate recognition system. Parking is available for visitors to the site; at the entrance barriers, visitors should buzz through to the Science Park Centre to be allowed access. Electric vehicle charging points are also available on-site – see the ZapMap here. Visitors can also use the nearby Park and Change car park.
Venue Address: Science Park Centre, Babbage Way, Exeter Science Park, Clyst Honiton, Exeter, EX5 2FN what3words: ///entrust.aspect.flinches
Travelling by Train: Exeter St David’s destinations include London (2 hours), Bristol (1.25 hours) and Birmingham (2.5 hours).
Travelling by Air Exeter International Airport’s destinations include UK and European cities.
Taxis: Exeter has an extensive network of Taxis, for those arriving at Exeter St David’s station you will find the Taxi rank at the station entrance.
Drinks Reception and Networking Dinner
A networking drinks reception and informal dinner will be held on the evening of the 13th March.
Hotels
Accommodation will be available at the voco Zeal Exeter Science Park Hotel– the first lifecycle net zero carbon hotel. It has been designed to align with the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Framework Definition of the UK Green Building Council – the membership-led industry network.
The voco Zeal Exeter Science Park is thrilled to extend an exclusive preferential rate for the upcoming UKSPA annual conference. As a net zero carbon hotel, they are committed to providing exceptional hospitality while minimizing our environmental impact. Their eco-conscious approach is seamlessly integrated with solar panel technology, living trees on the ground floor, and an adiabatic heating & cooling system, ensuring your stay is both comfortable and responsible..
Hotel: voco Zeal Exeter
Booking:Please email info@vczealexeter.com with your arrival and departure dates, and any bedroom requirements or preferences. If you are travelling a little further, or looking to make a weekend of the trip, there are a small number of bedrooms available the night before, and the preferential rate can be extended to Sunday, subject to availability.
Arrival Date: 13th March 2025
Departure Date: 14th March 2025
Room Type: Standard Single Occupancy B&B: £105 per night
Sponsorship and Exhibition
We have a number of sponsorship and exhibition opportunities available, please contact Adrian Sell for more details.
Delegate Booking
All UKSPA Members are entitled to up to two free places at the Conference. There are a limited number of non-member places (or for the booking of an additional delegate place for Members) with delegate fees shown in the booking details.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

UKSPA Annual General Meeting
2024-11-29 15:00 - 16:00 UTC
Notice is hereby given that the 2024 Annual General Meeting of the MEMBERS of the United Kingdom Science Park Association, constituted as a company limited by guarantee will be held online at 15:00 on Friday 29th November 2024.
The AGM will include an address by Chief Executive, James Chaffer on UKSPA’s activities over the last year, as well as a financial report on the health of the Association and the appointment of new members to the Board of Directors.
The AGM Agenda, along with the Draft Minutes of the 2023 AGM and the Audited Accounts for YE 31st March 2024 will be distributed to all registered attendees closer to the meeting date.
Please Note: Attendance is by invitation, for members only – if you haven’t received your personal invitation then please contact katie.lycett@ukspa.org.uk for details. Voting rights at the AGM are restricted to a single individual from each Full Member organisation. If you are a Full Member and unable to attend the AGM, please get in touch if you would like to nominate another Full Member to vote on your behalf.

UKSPA 40th Anniversary Conference & Gala Awards Dinner
2024-10-16 - 2024-10-18 | University Of Warwick, The Slate Conference Centre, Coventry, CV4 7SH, United Kingdom
UKSPA is 40
This year we are celebrating UKSPA’s 40th anniversary, which will be marked by a major conference at the University of Warwick on the 16th – 18th October.
The conference will include tours, informal networking activities and a Gala Awards Dinner, as well as plenary and parallel sessions addressing key themes, with distinguished keynote speakers and sector specialists, alongside vital member contributions. There will be a pre-conference dinner on the night of the 16th October at the British Motor Museum.
Experience an expanded programme, connect with industry leaders, and enjoy networking opportunities and tours. This year to enable us to deliver an extraordinary event entry is not complementary, we are offering a competitively priced all-inclusive package to include accommodation.
Conference Location: The Slate, Warwick University, CV4 7SH
#UKSPA40

Our Event Partners

Gold Partner

Silver Partner

Silver Partner

Silver Partner

University of Birmingham Facilities Showcase
2024-09-10 10:00 - 16:00 UTC | University of Birmingham, Haworth Building, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
On September 10th the University of Birmingham will be holding a showcase event for researchers and companies who want to access the medical, engineering and technical facilities that are available at the University.
The Facilities Showcase is intended for companies who want to propel their projects forwards in collaboration with the University’s cutting edge facilities and expertise.
It will include stands, talks, and tours of on-campus facilities, which, along with the expertise available at a research-intensive university, can drive research and development projects forward.
You can sign up for the event at https://bit.ly/4c57tWs.
Exhibitors and talks include:
10:20am: Birmingham Tissue Analytics (tissue staining, visualisation and image analysis)
10:30am: Centre for Electron Microscopy (provides expertise in operating electron microscopes and data interpretation)
10:40am: Genomics Birmingham (provides a range of genomic services including next generation sequencing (NGS))
1:00pm: Terahertz Measurement Facility (tests and characterises novel low THz devices and systems)
1:10pm: Human Biomaterial Resource Centre (HBRC) (a Human Tissue Authority licensed human sample biorepository operated by the University of Birmingham)
1:20pm: Biomolecular NMR Facility (uses nuclear magnetic resonance to investigate structural biology, drug design and metabolomics)
2:00pm: Flow Cytometry Facility (supports flow cytometry, cell sorting and mass cytometry)
2:10pm: COMPARE Advanced Imaging Facility (offers training, support and access to equipment for advanced microscopy and image analysis)
2:20pm: Intravital Microscopy Imaging (imaging of live animals at microscopic resolution)

Tours of the following facilities are available:

Human Biomaterial Resource Centre
Tech Hub Microscopy Facility

The event will be held at the Haworth Building (Y2 on the campus map).

UKSPA Summer Conference: Wed 26th & Thurs 27th June @ STEAMhouse, powered by Birmingham City University
2024-06-26 11:00 - 2024-06-27 14:00 (Europe/London) | STEAMhouse, Belmont Row, Birmingham, B4 7RQ, United Kingdom
UKSPA members and stakeholders will gather at STEAMhouse, powered by Birmingham City University, on Wednesday 26th June and Thursday 27th June, for the UKSPA Summer Conference 2024. The Conference will be hosted by STEAMhouse, with the plenary sessions taking place at their dedicated conferencing facilities. There will also be opportunities to tour their state-of-the-art facilities, including their new Digital Lab, Production and Creative Spaces.
The two days will consider and debate current national and regional trends around Driving a Thriving Local Innovation Ecosystem, Building Reuse, Retrofitting and Health, Wellbeing and Sustainable Buildings.
Unlike many previous events, the Summer Conference will be held over Wednesday and Thursday, starting at 11:00 on Wednesday and concluding on Thursday lunchtime. Throughout the two days, leading speakers from the UKSPA network and key partners and stakeholders will discuss in-depth the challenges, opportunities, and innovative ways the sector continues to engage, inspire, and grow.
About Our Hosts
Once an integral part of Birmingham’s industrial past, the Victorian section of STEAMhouse was originally the headquarters for the Eccles Rubber and Cycle Company. In 2007, most of the building was destroyed by fire and remained derelict until being restored by Birmingham City University and re-launched as STEAMhouse in 2022.
STEAMhouse is a symbol of Birmingham’s commitment to industry and arts – a first-of-its-kind centre for collaborative innovation working at the intersection of Science, Technology, Engineering and the Arts (STEAM).
Conference Programme
The outline Conference Programme will be available to download shortly. The Agenda and Speakers List can be found here
Directions By Car and Train
A detailed map and directions for STEAMhouse can be found here
Travelling by Car: Car parking is available in the nearby Millennium Point Car Park, which is a 2min walk from the STEAMhouse buildingSTEAMhouse is within Birmingham City’s Clean Air Zone, please click here to check whether this will impact your journey if travelling by car.
Venue Address: STEAMhouse, Belmont Row, Birmingham, B4 7RQ
Travelling by Train:
Moor Street Station (approx. 0.4 miles, 9 min walk)New Street Station (approx. 0.7 miles, 13 min walk)Snow Hill Station (approx. 0.7 miles, 14 min walk)
Taxis: Birmingham has an extensive network of Taxis, for those arriving at Birmingham New Street Station you will find the Taxi rank on Navigation Street (Stephenson Street / Victoria Square exit) details can be found here.
Drinks Reception and Networking Dinner
A networking drinks reception and informal buffet dinner will be held on the evening of 26th June at the STEAMhouse.
Hotels
Please see below for details of the recommended Conference hotel, Aloft Birmingham Eastside which is just across the road from STEAMhouse, and is offering a discounted rate of £150 B&B for single occupancy to all UKPSA delegates, using the Promo Code ‘UKSPA’. The number of rooms available is limited to approx. 45, and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is recommended that bookings are made immediately, to avoid disappointment.
Hotel: AloftBooking Link: CLICK HERE TO BOOK (Promo Code Applied)Arrival Date: 26th June 2024Departure Date: 27th June 2024Room Type: Standard KingSingle Occupancy B&B: £150 per night
Alternatively, there is a wide range of hotels located close to Birmingham Eastside.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
We have a number of sponsorship and exhibition opportunities available, please contact Adrian Sell for more details.
Delegate Booking
All UKSPA Members are entitled to up to two free places at the Conference. There is a limited number of non-member places (or for booking additional delegate places for Members) with delegate fees shown in the booking details.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

Creating a Scientific Superpower
2024-06-18 08:00 - 17:00 UTC | QEII Conference Centre, Broad Sanctuary, London, SW1P 3EE
Now entering its third year Creating a Scientific Superpower continues to drive dynamic debate with a world-class speaker line-up and more than 500 key stakeholders in UK innovation.
This year’s conference will explore what’s needed in a new UK industrial strategy, how we create an environment that not only attracts global talent but also supports them from startup phases to IPO.
The audience will be engaged in discussions aimed at unlocking the UK’s potential as a scientific leader, fostering a competitive ecosystem, and enhancing national productivity.
UKSPA are delighted to be partnering this event and will be available to meet on the day, come and meet the new members of our team, Gill Purkiss, Events and Marketing Manager and Katie Lycett our new Membership & CRM Executive. To arrange a meeting with any of the team email gill.purkiss@ukspa.org.uk. We look for to seeing you at Creating a Scientific Superpower.
Why attend Creating a Scientific Superpower

Connect with government officials, top scientists, influential business leaders, and global investors shaping the UK’s scientific superpower ambition
Participate in conversations that will help to shape the future of innovation in the UK.
Meet key players at the forefront of scientific and technological advancements.
Discover the emerging regional clusters that are accelerating growth across the nation

Speakers include

Steve Rees OBE, Vice President of Discovery Biology, AstraZeneca
Hans Bishop, President, Founder and Board Co-Chair, Altos Labs
Professor Irene Tracey CBE, Vice-Chancellor, University of Oxford
Andrew Griffith, Minister of State for Department of Science, Innovation & Technology
Euan Ashley, Associate Dean – School of Medicine, Stanford University
Spencer Collins, EVP and Chief Legal Officer, Arm
Chi Onwurah, Shadow Minister for Science, Research & Innovation
Andrew Williamson, Managing Partner, Cambridge Innovation Capital
Sheelpa Patel, CMO, Oxa
Javier Alvarez-Valle, Senior Director of Biomedical Imaging, Microsoft
Roland Sinker, National Director for Life Sciences, NHS England

Time & Location
18 Jun 2024, 08:00 – 17:00
QEII Conference Centre, London, Broad Sanctuary, London SW1P 3EE, UK
Register Now: Places are limited for this exclusive free to attend event

CEME Hydrogen Summit: Hydrogen Innovators and the Future
2024-06-13 09:30 - 16:00 UTC
CEME is working with partners in the Thames Estuary area to create Hydrogen Living Lab that will be part of the Hydrogen ecosystem being created within the Thames Estuary region. As part of London Tech Week we are hosting a Hydrogen Summit in Rainham RM13 8EU.
This one-day summit aims to explore how Hydrogen can contribute to the UK economy, the opportunities and challenges being created by innovators working with some of the best research institutions in the UK.
As the energy crisis, climate change and sustainable energy rise up the political agenda, Hydrogen has become a hot topic once more. What can we do facilitate the optimisation of this energy source in the UK?
This event is aimed at Hydrogen Innovators, investors, research institutions and industries interested in pursuing Hydrogen as a viable energy form in the journey towards net zero.
Attend the CEME Hydrogen Summit to:
· Find out about developments and opportunities for Hydrogen in the UK
· Collaborate and network with innovators in Hydrogen use.
· Be a part of the UK Hydrogen community.
· Discuss the issues currently affecting the supply chain.
· Learn more about the investment opportunities available
· Get inspired by those leading the charge in Hydrogen

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
#CEMEH2Summit

Cambridge Wide Open Day, June 12th 2024
2024-06-12 11:00 - 15:00 UTC
Cambridge is buzzing with exciting ideas, pioneering companies, and new facilities across science and technology. Cambridge Wide Open Day is an opportunity for everyone to see the latest inventions, innovations and people who are shaping the world, all in one day. Join us!
Cambridge has championed collaboration to become one of the leading science and technology clusters in the world. A reputation built on world-leading innovation, fast-growing science and technology companies, academia, and innovation centers – underpinned by investment, people, and skills. To support the continued progression of this world-leading position, collaboration and inclusivity across the entire community is necessary.
Cambridge Wide Open Day is a long-term project offering the community – from science and technology enthusiasts to local residents – a unique opportunity to discover the city’s world-class science and technology facilities all in one day. Through a series of tours, workshops, presentations, pitches, clinics, talks, and product demonstrations visitors get to see what goes on behind closed doors of pioneering companies, rounding the day off with a garden party reception at the o2h co-works labs.
Cambridge Wide Open Day also welcomes visitors from outside Cambridge, around the country, and across the world, who are curious to see what’s going on ‘inside’ Cambridge.
o2h group, the creators of innovative Sci-Tech communities, is delighted to announce that Cambridge Wide Open Day will return on Wednesday 12th June 2024.
Building on the success of the inaugural event in 2023, which welcomed over 600 visitors to explore over 100 organisations that opened their doors, Cambridge Wide Open Day 2024 aims to further strengthen the cluster’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive community.
Across the city, leading science companies and innovation parks will open their doors to showcase their contribution to STEM innovation.
Find out more at cambridgewideopenday.com, or to sign up as an organisation to open your doors, please email cambridgewideopenday@o2h.com.

Enterprise Tuesday at Norwich Research Park
2024-06-11 13:30 - 18:00 UTC
Venue: John Innes Conference Centre, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7UH
Date: Tuesday 11th June, 2024
Time: 13:30 – 18:00
Join Norwich Research Park for its fifth Enterprise Tuesday showcase. This event entitled ‘Research and Technology Platforms Open for Innovative Business’ will feature speakers from the John Innes Centre, Earlham Institute, Quadram Institute and UEA highlighting the technology platforms developed at Norwich Research Park, revealing their origin, and presenting case studies on their applications and discoveries. The speakers will delve into the funding sources for these platforms, showcase their practical implementations in various industries and their critical role in enabling businesses to access expertise.
The second half of the agenda is an interactive panel discussion titled “Strengthening Engagement through ‘Science Push’ and ‘Industry Pull”. The panel will focus on the power of technology platforms to deliver for business, to maximise impact for society.
During this programme attendees will be able to connect with a wide range of specialist technology platforms available at Norwich Research Park. This event is will also be a great opportunity for anyone unfamiliar with Norwich Research Park to learn more about what is here.
This event is free to attend, but if you are interested in joining us at this event, please register your place.

IASP European Division Conference 2024
2024-04-24 19:00 - 2024-04-26 13:00 UTC | Technology and Innovation Centre, 99 George St, Glasgow, G1 1RD, United Kingdom
Join Science Park and Innovation District colleagues from around the world at IASP Glasgow 2024, the International Association of Science Parks and Innovation Areas (IASP) European Divison Conference 2024, from the 24th to 26th April 2024.
Attendees are invited to learn more about developing an innovation ecosystem from the heart of conference host Glasgow City Innovation District.
The conference will provide insight into the development of Glasgow City Innovation District, learn from innovation ecosystem developers from across the globe and network with counterparts from the city and country’s ecosystem as well as colleagues from around the world.

UKSPA Spring Conference: Thurs 14th & Fri 15th March, Babraham Research Campus
2024-03-14 11:00 - 2024-03-15 15:00 (Europe/London) | Babraham Research Campus, Babraham Hall, Babraham, Cambridge, CB22 3AT, United Kingdom
UKSPA members and stakeholders will gather on Thursday 14th and Friday 15th March, for the UKSPA Spring Conference 2024. The Conference will be hosted by Babraham Research Campus, with the plenary sessions taking place at the dedicated modern conferencing facilities in the Cambridge Building. There will also be opportunities to tour the campus facilities, including the Live Labs and the Flow Cytometry Facility.
Following-on from the hugely successful UKSPA Autumn Conference at Coventry University Technology Park in November, the two days will consider and debate current national and regional trends.
The Conference will start at lunchtime on Thursday and conclude on Friday afternoon. Throughout the two days, leading speakers from the UKSPA network and key partners and stakeholders will discuss in depth the challenges, opportunities, and innovative ways the sector continues to further engage, inspire, and grow.
About Our Hosts
The Babraham Research Campus is a leading location which supports early-stage bioscience enterprises and is distinct in its co-location of bioscience companies with the world-leading discovery research of the Babraham Institute. The Campus is a dynamic environment within 430 acres of parkland, home to over 60 companies, 2,000 employees and 300 academic researchers. It is where discovery research and business come together with a shared scientific focus that accelerates innovation and strengthens links between academia and the commercial world.
The vision is for the Babraham Research Campus to be one of the best places in the world for discovery bioscience research and innovation and a leading sustainable ecosystem to start, nurture, scale and grow bioscience business, capturing new opportunities. Their mission is to deliver a growing and vibrant Campus. A Campus that enables world-leading bioscience research and business to come together in a unique combination, with a focus that accelerates scientific discovery and helps to build and scale businesses. Delivering a highly connected, sustainable and dynamic ecosystem, that creates new discoveries, therapeutics, jobs and growth to support the UK economy.
Conference Programme
The outline Conference Programme is available to download here.
Directions By Car and Train
A detailed map of Babraham Research Campus can be downloaded here.
Travelling by Car: Please note if you are driving you must come through the main gate on the A1307 and not through the old entrance via Babraham Village, which satellite navigation systems often give directions to.
Venue Address: The Cambridge Building, Babraham Research Campus, Babraham, Cambridge, CB22 3AT
Travelling by Train: We recommend arriving at Cambridge Station, which is approx. 9km north of the Research Campus. Whittlesford Parkway is closer, approx. 7km west of the Campus, but has fewer services and no guaranteed taxi availability.
Taxis: Taxi services are available from Cambridge Station (Mastercab 01223 566654, Panther 01223 715715) but note this service cannot be guaranteed from Whittlesford Parkway, so please check first.
Drinks Reception
A networking drinks reception will be held on Thursday 14th March, immediately following the conference sessions. This will take place in the Bar of the Cambridge Building, at Babraham Research Campus
Coaches to/from Cambridge
Coach travel will be provided from the Conference venue to the conference hotel and dinner venue in Cambridge City Centre on the evening of Thursday 14th March, following the drinks reception. Return coach travel will be provided from Cambridge to the Conference Venue on the morning of Friday 15th March, to arrive in time for registration. Delegates are encouraged to leave their cars at Babraham Research Campus overnight.
Networking Dinner
There will be a networking dinner on Thursday 14th March, held at Graduate Cambridge, Granta Place, Mill Ln, Cambridge CB2 1RT.
Hotels
Graduate Cambridge is the venue for the Networking Dinner. We are now advised that the number of available rooms is now limited. Bookings are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Alternatively, there is a wide range of hotels located close to Cambridge City Centre.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
All sponsorship and exhibition opportunities have now been reserved and allocated.
Delegate Booking
All UKSPA Members are entitled to up to two free places at the Conference. There will be a limited number of non-member places (or for the booking of additional delegate places for Members) with delegate fees shown on the Eventbrite registration page, when available.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

UKSPA Autumn Conference: Thurs 9th & Fri 10th November 2023, Coventry Technology Park
2023-11-09 11:00 - 2023-11-10 15:00 UTC | Coventry University Technology Park, Puma Way, Coventry, CV1 2TT, United Kingdom
UKSPA members and stakeholders will gather in Coventry on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th November, for the UKSPA Autumn Conference 2023, incorporating the Association’s AGM. The Conference will be hosted by Coventry University Technology Park, with the plenary sessions, AGM, evening drinks reception and dinner all taking place at the TechoCentre’s dedicated conferencing facilities.
Following on from the UKSPA Summer Conference at the University of York Science Park in June, the two days will consider and debate current national and regional trends.
The Conference will start at lunchtime on Thursday and conclude on Friday afternoon. Throughout the two days, leading speakers from the UKSPA network and key partners and stakeholders will discuss in depth the challenges, opportunities, and innovative ways the sector continues to further engage, inspire, and grow.
Conference Programme
The outline Conference Programme is now available to download here.
Drinks Reception and Dinner
There will be a drinks reception and networking buffet dinner on Thursday 9th November, following immediately on from the UKSPA AGM.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
To discuss sponsorship and exhibition opportunities please contact Adrian Sell – adrian.sell@ukspa.org.uk. Please note that space is limited so early registration is strongly recommended to guarantee your place.
Directions By Car and Train
Please CLICK HERE to view directions to the Coventry University Technology Park. The Park is a 10 minute walk away from Coventry Train Station, just follow the dotted line on the map or alternatively a taxi will take a few minutes.
Hotels
Please see below for details of the recommended Conference hotel, which is a couple of minutes’ walk from the conference venue, and is offering a discounted rate to all delegates until 30th October. Alternatively, there is a wide range of hotels located close to the City Centre.

Hotel Name
ibis Coventry Centre

Telephone
02476 250500

Conference Rate Ref
UKSPA85

Arrival Date
8th or 9th November 2023

Departure Date
10th November 2023

Room Type
Double/Twin

Single Occupancy B&B
£85.00 per night

Double Occupancy B&B
£90.00 per night

Delegate Booking
All UKSPA Members are entitled to up to two free places at the Conference. There are a limited number of non-member places (or for the booking of an additional delegate place for Members) with delegate fees shown on the Eventbrite registration page.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK
About Our Hosts
This is a great year for The Technology Park, as it celebrates its 25th anniversary. The Technology Park is a professional environment for businesses to operate in, offering quality office space and business support services as well as access to a modern on-site Conference venue – CoventryConferences.
The idea of joining office space with conference and meeting room facilities was rarely heard of when the Technology Park first opened its doors back in 1998 and it has continued to grow to accommodate the demand for quality serviced office space in a central UK location. Local, national and international businesses, large companies, partner organisations, like the local Chamber, as well as SMEs have their offices on the Technology Park, a key attraction being access to other businesses as well as opportunities to collaborate on Coventry University projects. Flexible lease and licence terms and access to the Technology Park on a 24/7 basis and both formal and informal networking events further add to why currently over 65 businesses have made the decision to call this home too. Whether the search is for a small office for a newly established business or a large office of 100 sqm upwards, there’s a good mix of office sizes to meet varied business requirements.
Knowing where to go or who to speak to when your business needs a bit of direction can be daunting. That’s why we make it easier by offering access to an extensive range of business support services and projects. From funding to graduate assistance to taking part in sustainable initiatives and many more, whatever the business requires to grow and develop, the Technology Park Centre Management Team will gladly facilitate a discussion with the relevant colleague or partner organisation.
That’s not all – our virtual office scheme – VirtualBiz – is ideal for small (or any size) businesses that require a professional appearance but without the office costs. Still having access to business support services and the extensive services available on the Technology Park itself like The Bistro and meeting rooms as office clients, VirtualBiz offers two cost-effective packages.

IASP 2023 Luxembourg
2023-09-12 - 2023-09-15 | ECCL, European Convention Centre Luxembourg, 4 Place de l'Europe, 1499 Neudorf-Weimershof, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
Our international colleagues at IASP are holding their milestone 40th Annual World Conference in Luxembourg this autumn, and UKSPA is proud to be promoting this as official media partners.
Taking place from 12th-15th September 2023, IASP’s 40th World Conference on Science Parks and Areas of Innovation offers the opportunity to form new collaborations with colleagues around the world, meet local companies and discover Luxembourgish innovation, history and culture, under the main theme of “Megatrends in Innovation Ecosystems: What are the impacts for STPs and AOIs?”
Early Bird discounts are available until 30th June, but should you need more time, UKSPA has secured an extended Early Bird deadline for our members, partners and stakeholders, the details of which we will be able to share on request.
Find out more about the event and register now by clicking here.
We hope to see you in Luxembourg in September!

UKSPA Summer Conference: Tues 27th & Wed 28th June 2023, York Science Park
2023-06-27 12:00 - 2023-06-28 15:00 UTC | Exhibition Centre, University of York, Exhibition Centre, York, YO10 5NA, United Kingdom
UKSPA members and stakeholders will gather in York on Tuesday 27th & Wednesday 28th June, for the UKSPA Summer Conference 2023, hosted by York Science Park. The conference sessions will take place at the Exhibition Centre on the main University of York campus, with the evening drinks reception and formal dinner at the recently renovated York Guildhall, in the city centre.
Following on from the last UKSPA Conference at the University of Southampton Science Park in March, the two days will consider and debate current national and regional trends.
The Conference will start at lunchtime on Tuesday and conclude on Wednesday afternoon. Throughout the two days, leading speakers from the UKSPA network and key partners and stakeholders will discuss in depth the challenges, opportunities, and innovative ways the sector continues to further engage, inspire, and grow.
The full conference programme is now available to download here.
Drinks Reception and Dinner
There will be a drinks reception and networking dinner on Tuesday 27th June from 19:00-21:30 at The York Guildhall
Due to limited spaces available at the Guildhall, the evening dinner will be on a first come first served basis, so please book early to avoid disappointment. You will find further details when registering, including cancellation T&C’s.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
To discuss sponsorship and exhibition opportunities please contact Adrian Sell – adrian.sell@ukspa.org.uk. Please note that space is limited so early registration is strongly recommended to guarantee your place.
Hotels
Please find below a list of recommended hotels, some of which are offering discounted rates for a limited period. Alternatively, there is a wide range of hotels located close to the City Centre.

Hotel Du Vin
Malmaison Hotel
Indigo York
York Marriot Hotel
Middleton Hotel:

Call to Book: 01904 611 570
Conference Rate Ref: BK045561
Ref Name: Nicky Hodgson (UKSPA)
Arrival Date: 27th June 2023
Departure Date: 28th June 2023
Room Type: Cosy Double
Package: York University B&B – complimentary with car parking
Total Rate: £98.00

About our Hosts
York Science Park is situated on the University of York Campus, at the innovative hub of a prestigious heritage and science city.
York Science Park enables businesses to connect with world leading knowledge and expertise at the University of York. York Science Park is based at the heart of the University of York campus and is a hub of over 100 businesses and innovators.
All UKSPA Members are entitled to up to two free places at the Conference. There are a limited number of non-member places (or for the booking of an additional delegate place for Members) with delegate fees shown on the Eventbrite registration page.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

UKSPA Spring Conference: Thurs 16th & Fri 17th March 2023, University of Southampton Science Park
2023-03-16 11:00 - 2023-03-17 15:00 (Europe/London) | The University of Southampton Science Park, 2 Venture Rd, Southampton, SO16 7NP, United Kingdom
UKSPA members and stakeholders will gather for the Spring Conference at The University of Southampton Science Park on Thursday 16th & Friday 17th March 2023. Following on from the last UKSPA Conference at Circle Square, Manchester in December, the two days will consider and debate current national and regional trends.
The Conference will start at lunchtime on Thursday, with tours of the campus for delegates arriving before lunch, and conclude with keynote speeches on Friday afternoon. Throughout the two days, leading speakers from the UKSPA network and key partners and stakeholders will discuss in depth the challenges, opportunities, and innovative ways the sector continues to further engage, inspire and grow.
The full conference programme is now available – click here to download.
Informal Drinks Reception and Dinner
There will be a drinks reception and networking dinner on Thursday 16th March from 19:00-21:00 at the Best Western Chilworth Manor Hotel, which is also the designated Conference hotel, and is located on the Science Park campus.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
To discuss sponsorship and exhibition opportunities please contact Adrian Sell – adrian.sell@ukspa.org.uk. Please note that space is limited so early registration is strongly recommended to guarantee your place.
Hotels
The designated Conference hotel is the Best Western Chilworth Manor Hotel, which is conveniently located on the Science Park campus.
Rooms are available at discounted rates, from £90 per night (breakfast included) for conference delegates on both the Wednesday and Thursday nights. Room numbers at the hotel are restricted, and are likely to sell out well in advance of the Conference, so it is recommended to make your reservation as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
To book your room at the Chilworth Manor Hotel please call the hotel directly during office hours, on either of the numbers below, quoting Booking Code ‘UKSPA’:

Tel: 023 8076 7333
Tel: 023 8076 3030

Alternative hotels in the locality are as follows:
DoubleTree by Hilton Southampton: Bracken Place, Chilworth, Southampton, SO16 3RB.

Tel: 023 8070 2700
Email: events.southampton@hilton.com

The Village Hotel Eastleigh, Bournemouth Road, Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh, SO53 3YJ.

Tel: 02382 027 760
Email: reception.eastleigh@village-hotels.com

About our Hosts
Southampton Science Park is the South of England’s innovation hub. Set across 72 acres, it offers a wide range of commercial offices, laboratories, meeting and conferencing facilities for new start-ups and leading technology businesses.
It is committed to fuelling innovation and helping to ensure that British science and technology has a presence on the world stage. The leadership team has decades of experience and a deep understanding of the complex needs of science and technology businesses at all stages of development from start-up to multinational. They understand the importance of flexibility, a joined-up approach to commercialising research, connecting businesses with mentors, advisors and investors, and of sharing best practice with peers to drive further breakthroughs.
Their deeply engrained relationships with the University of Southampton, the SETsquared Partnership and the UK Science Park Association enable us to fulfil these roles for the benefit of their business community.
They also support new and early-stage technology businesses with their self-funded Catalyst business accelerator programme, designed to give promising new enterprises the best possible chance of success.
All UKSPA Members are entitled to up to two free places at the Conference. There are a limited number of non-member places (or for the booking of an additional delegate place for Members) with delegate fees shown on the Eventbrite registration page.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

UKSPA Winter Conference: Thurs 1st & Fri 2nd December 2022, No.1 Circle Square, Manchester
2022-12-01 11:00 - 2022-12-02 15:00 (Europe/London) | No.1 Circle Square, Manchester, 3 Symphony Park, Manchester, M1 7FS, United Kingdom
UKSPA members and stakeholders will gather for the Winter Conference at No.1 Circle Square, Manchester on Thursday 1st & Friday 2nd December 2022. Following on from the last UKSPA Conference at Charnwood Campus in September, the two days will consider and debate current national and regional trends. The Association will also host its Annual General Meeting on 1st December 2022.
The Conference will start at lunchtime on Thursday, and conclude on Friday afternoon. Throughout the two days, leading speakers from the UKSPA network and key partners will discuss in depth the challenges, opportunities, and innovative ways the sector continues to further engage, inspire and grow.
In addition, key topics being discussed over the two days include:

The Global Energy Crisis: UKSPA members discuss possible measures to mitigate energy costs
Innovation Districts: Driving inclusive urban growth
Growth: The case for devolution of innovation and skills to raise regional productivity & UK growth
Sustainable Life Sciences: Creating and delivering research facilities
Cyber Resilience: The challenge for the science and innovation sector
Innovation Support & Growth: City Perspectives

The draft conference programme is available for download HERE.
Informal Drinks Reception and Dinner
There will be a drinks reception and informal networking dinner on Thursday 1st December from 19:00-23:00 in the ‘Den’, a private function room within The Refuge, part of the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, an amazing renovation of the Grade II listed former Refuge Assurance headquarters, built in 1895 – map link here.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
To discuss sponsorship and exhibition opportunities please contact Adrian Sell – adrian.sell@ukspa.org.uk. Please note that space is limited so early registration is strongly recommended to guarantee your place.
Hotels
The designated Conference hotel is the Maldron Hotel Manchester City Centre, 60 Charles St, Manchester, M1 7DF, which is a 2 minute walk from No.1 Circle Square.
Rooms are available at a significantly discounted rate of £112 including breakfast for conference delegates on both the Wednesday and Thursday nights. To book your room at the Maldron Hotel please visit the hotel’s website, click on ‘Book a Room’ and enter the promotional code below when prompted:

Website: www.maldronhotelmanchestercitycentre.com
Promotional Code: UKSP301122
Tel: 0161 398 0230

Other hotels you may wish to consider in the area:

Holiday Inn Express Manchester City Centre, 2-4 Oxford Rd, Manchester, M1 5QA
Premier Inn Manchester City Centre, 2 Brook St, Manchester M1 7BJ
Hotel ibis Manchester Centre, Charles St, Manchester, M1 7DG

About our Hosts
Bruntwood SciTech is a 50:50 joint venture between Bruntwood and Legal & General. Their network of innovation districts across Birmingham, Cambridge, Cheshire, Leeds, Liverpool, Glasgow and Manchester are committed to driving inclusive, sustainable economic growth through investment in a vibrant science and technology infrastructure. As part of the UKSPA conference programme, you will hear some of Bruntwood SciTech’s exciting development plans in the pipeline.
Circle Square is an exciting new neighbourhood for digital and tech businesses in the heart of Manchester’s innovation district.
Circle Square offers flexible workspaces and bespoke programmes of business support, helping creative, digital and technology businesses to form, scale and grow. Part of Circle Square is Manchester’s Tech Incubator, home to a unique cluster of some of the region’s most disruptive, fast-growing tech businesses. Ideal for start-ups, scale-ups and global corporates in Creative, digital tech, cyber security, AI, blockchain, VR, Engineering and more.
Please Consider the Environment
The Conference venue is within 5 minutes walk of Manchester Oxford Road train station, and is also easily accessible by bus or tram from Manchester Piccadilly station. Furthermore, the designated hotel and the venue for the evening drinks & networking dinner have all been selected to be within 2-3 minutes walk of the venue, in order to ensure that as many delegates as possible feel able to leave their cars at home and travel by public transport, in order to reduce the event’s overall carbon footprint.
All UKSPA Members are entitled to up to two free places at the Conference. There are a limited number of non-member places (or for the booking of an additional delegate place for Members) with delegate fees shown on the Eventbrite registration page.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

BEN: Science and Innovation Clusters Development Conference
2022-11-24 08:00 - 16:30 (Europe/London) | Kensington Town Hall, Hornton Street, London, W8 7NX, United Kingdom
The Science, Innovation and Research sector has been championed as a bulwark of the national levelling up agenda. The UK Government has recently announced a £25bn funding package for the next three years. The package is the largest of its kind and will split its funding across three subsectors: £16bn will be directed towards Core Science, Research and Innovation, £3bn will go towards Infrastructure and Multidisciplinary Projects, and £2bn towards securing top talent for the sector.
A conservative estimate suggests there are over £10bn of development projects coming forward over the next five years, with government showing its intent with their recent funding package announcement and by publishing a 10-year vision for life sciences. This conference unpicks the challenges and opportunities facing Science and Innovation cluster development by exploring an array of major projects, policy announcements and investment opportunities with over 400 of the sector’s senior leaders.

UKSPA Autumn Conference: Thurs 15th & Fri 16th September 2022, Charnwood Campus
2022-09-15 - 2022-09-16 | Charnwood Campus, Bakewell Road, Loughborough, LE11 5RB, United Kingdom
UKSPA members and stakeholders will gather for their Autumn Conference at Charnwood Campus, Loughborough on Thursday 15th & Friday 16th September 2022. Following on from the last UKSPA Conference at The Oxford Science Park in late March & early April, the two days will consider and debate current national and regional trends.
The Conference will start at lunchtime on Thursday, and conclude on Friday afternoon. Throughout the two days, leading speakers from the UKSPA network and key partners will discuss in depth the challenges, opportunities, and innovative ways the sector continues to further engage, inspire and grow.
A drinks reception and dinner will be held on Thursday 15th September from 19:00-21:30 approx. The event will be taking place at the conference hotel, the Yew Lodge Hotel & Conference Centre in Kegworth – map link here.
The draft conference programme is now available for download here.
About our Hosts
Charnwood Campus Science, Innovation and Technology Park is a business-led life science ecosystem that provides world-class flexible laboratories, specialist manufacturing facilities and a comprehensive support package for life science and associated companies.
Its vision is to become a leading next-generation life sciences cluster in the UK, driving innovation, growth and improving healthcare for all. The Campus offers a dynamic, innovative and multidimensional Life Sciences Cluster support proposition that offers an exceptional environment for life science businesses to thrive and grow. The proposition is designed to nurture and drive the life science ecosystem in the region. It is proudly representing the companies clustered around Charnwood Campus on a regional and national level. Strongly rooted in 4 life science business development areas (Skills, Leadership, Cluster Support and NHS and Academia collaboration) that together form a unique platform for Midlands’ life sciences sector to be heard on the micro and macro level.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
To discuss sponsorship and exhibition opportunities please contact Adrian Sell – adrian.sell@ukspa.org.uk
Please note that space is limited so early registration is strongly recommended to guarantee your place.
Hotels
The designated Conference hotel is the Best Western Premier Yew Lodge Hotel & Conference Centre, Packington Hill, Kegworth, DE74 2DF, which is approximately 15 minutes drive from Charnwood Campus. Coaches will be provided from Charnwood Campus to the conference hotel on the afternoon of Thursday 15th September, and from the hotel back to the conference venue the following morning.
Rooms are available at a negotiated discounted rate of £95 including breakfast for conference delegates. To book your room at the Yew Lodge Hotel please contact the hotel directly quoting booking code ‘UKSPA’.

Tel: 01509 672518
Email: reservations@yewlodgehotel.co.uk

Other hotels you may wish to consider in the area:
Hilton East Midlands Airport, M1 Junction, 24 Derby Rd, Derby, DE74 2YZ
Kegworth Hotel & Conference Centre, Packington Hill, Kegworth, Derby DE74 2DF
All UKSPA Members are entitled to up to two free places at the Conference. There are a limited number of non-member places (or for the booking of an additional delegate place for Members) with delegate fees shown on the Eventbrite registration page.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

Creating a Scientific Superpower
2022-06-20
Following the publication of Bidwells’ recent repot ‘Radical Capital’, UKSPA are proud to support their upcoming national conference, ‘Creating a Scientific Superpower’ taking place at the QEII Conference Centre in London on the 20th June 2022.
The UK government has vowed to restore Britain’s standing as a global science and technology superpower.
The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine has already shown what is possible if the UK’s innovation ecosystem is fully supported – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
The UK is home to world-leading innovation in life sciences, space, energy and future transport, yet the question remains: how do we fully unlock the country’s innovation potential to catapult global Britain?
With its globally renowned universities, rapidly growing spin-out businesses and multinational enterprises, the Oxford-Cambridge Arc has the potential to lead this national mission by becoming the UK’s Silicon Valley and doubling its economy to £235bn by 2030.
This major conference, with speakers including AstraZeneca, UKRI, Oxford Properties, Harwell Campus, BitBio and many more, will bring together leading scientists, government ministers, scientific enterprises and investors with more than 400 delegates to discuss how the UK can become a scientific superpower.
For more information, and to register for your free place, CLICK HERE

Navigating risk mitigation for your park assets
2022-05-12 12:00 - 13:15 (Europe/London)
The next UKSPA webinar will discuss some of the biggest risks to science parks, the assets and how to best mitigate them. Our speakers will be covering service charges, ESG legislative changes and a quick dive into EPC and MEES and what you can be doing to invest wisely, save money and all whilst improving your environmental impact.
Speakers:

William Frost, Associate Director, Avison Young: William works nationally, reviewing service charges for landlord and occupier clients. This also includes ensuring recovery is compliant with lease terms, the RICS Professional statement: Service charges in commercial property, and that costs represent value for money.

Tom Malcolm-Green, Sustainability Consultant, Avison Young: Tom advises both public and private sector clients across the ESG spectrum. He has over 8 years of experience working on sustainability related projects and in providing strategic ESG advice across the property lifecycle.

Nicky Knight, Director and Head of Service Charge Consultancy, Avison Young:Nicky has a wealth of experience conducting specialist reviews of service charge and insurance costs. As a director and head of service charge consultancy at Avison Young. Nicky works nationally providing in-depth examination of cost of services supplied by the landlord to the client as occupier.

Paul Holden, Director, Carbon Profile Ltd: Paul has over 20 years’ experience in real estate compliance. A qualified public health professional who has embraced the global need to drive a more sustainable future. Paul has worked for some of the UK’s leading consultancies and held leadership roles for the past 7 years.

UKSPA Member Conference
2022-03-31 - 2022-04-01
This is a UKSPA member only conference
UKSPA will gather at The Oxford Science Park on Thursday 31st March and Friday 1st April 2022. Following on from the last UKSPA in–person conference in December, the two days will consider and debate current national and regional trends. We will also hear from speakers on the key drivers for growth and the ambitious vision for the Oxfordshire region and the Oxford-Cambridge Arc, in stimulating competitive growth, investment and job creation for the UK economy.
The conference will also host sessions on sustainability, incubation and business support, and the important role that clusters and clustering play in delivering opportunities, skills and high growth innovation ecosystems.
Throughout the two days, leading speakers from the UKSPA network and key partners will discuss in depth the challenges, opportunities and innovative ways the sector continues to further engage, inspire and grow their communities in the post pandemic world.
An agenda will be announced very shortly
Sponsorship and Exhibition
To discuss sponsorship and exhibition opportunities please contact adrian.sell@ukspa.org.uk
Please note this is a UKSPA member only event: Space is very limited so early registration is strongly recommended to guarantee your place
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

Anaerobic Digestion event: Innovation to unlock growth in the AD industry
2022-03-29 09:00 - 13:30 (Europe/London)
About this event

The anaerobic digestion (AD) industry faces a challenging future of dwindling subsidies and increasing environmental regulatory standards. New technologies could be the way forward: offering the possibility of wider feedstock choice, increased productivity, new income streams or pollution solutions. This meeting aims to reconsider what is possible at an AD plant by exploring just some of the exciting innovations that are out there. It should be of interest to operators, technology providers, waste managers and researchers. It is combined with a networking session over lunch.
This is a hybrid event. The talks can be either accessed as an online webinar or attended in-person.
The talks will be followed by a networking lunch (in-person event only)
REGISTER HERE

ARISE Harlow Innovation Hub: Launch event
2022-03-25 10:00 - 13:30 (Europe/London)
About this event

Join us for the official opening of Arise Harlow, ARU’s ecosystem for entrepreneurs. Where health, performance and wellbeing companies can work, collaborate and grow.
Join us and hear from local MedTech and HealthTech innovators, find out how we can help your business grow and welcome our special guest speakers.
Following our packed agenda, you’ll have the opportunity to tour the new building and the surrounding Harlow Innovation Park, then relax, network and enjoy refreshments.
We very much look forward to seeing you.
Beverley and the Arise Team.

Agenda
10.00-10.30 Arrival and refreshments
10.30-10.35 Welcome from Dr Beverley Vaughan
10.35-10.50 The Arise Innovation Hubs and ARU – our commitment to innovation in healthcare in Essex with Prof. Roderick Watkins
10.50-11.05 Innovation in Essex, what comes next? Talk by Cllr Kevin Bentley
11.05-11.20 How do we create a successful cluster, supporting the UK as an innovation nation? Talk by Miranda Knaggs, Corporate Development Director – We Are Pioneer Group
11.20-11.30 The official opening and unveiling of the plaque by Cllr Kevin Bentley
11.30- 13.30 Networking and enjoy canapés and a glass of fizz to celebrate. This is your opportunity to visit our display room showcasing the work of Arise and our wider community.

Vision to Reality: The steps to net zero
2022-03-24 12:00 - 13:15 (Europe/London)
This webinar will discuss what key drivers and approaches are needed to achieve net zero, the sustainability targets and green clauses. The session will also ask the question; what is a net zero carbon lab and how this can be delivered effectively and to target, on the journey to net zero science.
Chair; James Latham, UKSPA Early Career Board Member and Development & Leasing Director Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst

Speakers:

Laura Ludlow. Principal Associate, Mills & Reeve LLP
Laura is a real estate development lawyer with an ESG focus in the Cambridge office of national law firm Mills & Reeve. Laura advises universities and colleges in the management and development of their estates and is a key member of the team recognised as a leading legal services provider to the education sector. She also has substantial experience of a diverse range of commercial property and construction matters, acting for developers, occupiers, investment funds and local authorities.

Gary Clark, Principal, HOK and Chair of RIBA Sustainable Futures Group
Gary is Regional Leader for Science and Technology in the UK, Europe and the Middle East, and leads HOK’s London Studio team of highly experienced lab and general architects, in addition to overseeing sustainability and consultancy services. He has nearly 30 years of experience in working with leading clients and translating their aspirations into unique award winning and high-performance buildings in a variety of sectors.
He was appointed visiting professor of sustainable architecture at Queens University Belfast. He is also Chair of the Royal Institute of British Architects’ Sustainable Futures Group, where he led the creation of the new RIBA 2030 Challenge and sustainability guidance.

Tim Fry, Sector Lead Life Sciences UK, Arup
Tim is the Science sector lead for Arup based in their London office. He is a chartered building services engineer with over 25 years’ experience working across multiple sectors with a substantial track record of life science projects, both research and manufacturing. This has included projects for corporate clients, government bodies and higher education providers. With a background in design and build, his passion is to support clients achieve their aspirations with facilities that are easy to build and operate whilst minimising the impact on the environment.

REGISTER HERE

The Science Park Vision
2022-02-17 12:00 - 13:15 (Europe/London)
REGISTER
The next UKSPA webinar will discuss what practical and deliverable guidance, support and measures can be put in place when delivering a long-term, sustainable masterplan for areas of innovation. We will hear from speakers who will give their experiences of implementing and delivering visions, strategies, and further encouraging innovation by providing facilities, support, and collaborative opportunities to create flourishing business eco-systems.
Speakers
Peter Baird, Senior Associate, Perkins &Will
Olivia Chatten, Business Development Manager, York Science Park
Mark Wathen, Strategic Lead – Economic Development and Growth, Somerset West and Taunton Council
Philip Campbell, Commercial Director, Milton Park
REGISTER

UKSPA December Conference: Thursday 2 and Friday 3 December 2021 Innovation Birmingham
2021-12-02 - 2021-12-03
We are delighted to announce that UKSPA will be returning to in-person events in December. This will be held in the Atrium of the iCentrum building at Innovation Birmingham. To view the programme – click here
The conference will start with lunch at 1.15pm and afternoon sessions will include the UKSPA AGM which will update members on the changes that are taking place and the future plans of the Association. The afternoon will also see sessions on the recently launched Birmingham Knowledge Quarter which is an alliance of eleven knowledge-led institutions. Thursday concludes with a walking tour of the Knowledge Quarter and a visit to a number of key sites.
An informal drinks reception and dinner will take place on Thursday evening at 7:30pm at the iCentrum building. For more details please email louise.tilbrook@ukspa.org.uk
Friday will have a series of talks on the crucial issues facing UKSPA members as well as the wider science and innovation sector as we move forward post pandemic.
Hotels – the conference hotel is Aloft Birmingham Eastside hotel (5-10 minutes walk from Innovation Birmingham Campus). Please click here to book.
Other hotels you may wish to consider:
Crown Plaza, Central Square, Birmingham – 36 min walk
Holiday Inn Express – 18 min walk
Premier Inn – Aston – 5 min walk
All UKSPA members have up to two free places at the conference. There are a very limited number of non-member places (or for the booking of a third delegate place for Members) with delegate fees shown on the Eventbrite registration page.
Safety information: We ask all those attending the event to follow Government guidelines as regards Covid-19. Delegates who are not fully vaccinated are advised to take a lateral flow test prior to attendance. Mask wearing is not mandatory at the conference however in confined spaces we advise their use. Hand sanitiser will be installed in many areas of the building.

Download programme

UKSPA webinar: Skills, talent and growth - Thursday 11th November
2021-11-11 12:00 - 13:15 (Europe/London)
Thursday 11th November 12 noon – 1.15 pm
Skills, talent and growth
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
The Government’s Innovation Strategy puts significant emphasis on investment to deliver the skills and training that our innovation ecosystem needs. Innovation locations are key to the success of these plans. Innovation locations collaborating to develop, attract and retain talent and skills. The Science and Innovation sector needs a broad and highly skilled workforce to power the economy and to provide opportunities now and in the future.
This webinar will debate the critical role innovation locations should play in inspiring, attracting and developing the best talent, providing the key skills necessary to further the knowledge economy. Speakers will consider the changes needed and the unique challenges faced. The webinar will also look at a number of projects underway to inspire young people to develop the STEM skills that are critical to the innovation process.
Speakers
Mark Lawson- Jones, Partner, Page Executive
John Leake, Business Growth Director, Sci-Tech Daresbury
David Hardman, Managing Director, Bruntwood SciTech – Birmingham
James Tooze, Policy Officer, Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE)

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

UKSPA webinar : Social impact and community engagement - Thursday 28th October
2021-10-28 12:00 - 13:15 (Europe/London)
Thursday 28th October 2021 12:00-13:15
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Social impact and community engagement
This webinar looks at the challenges, opportunities and innovative ways the sector continues to further engage and inspire their communities in the post pandemic world. We look at how areas of innovation make a significant social impact to their local areas and how we can build stronger ecosystems through driving innovation, attracting investment, local collaboration and innovative ways of pushing forward greater community engagement.
Speakers
Chair: Alice Reeve, , Chief Executive Officer, Hethel Innovation
Sally O’Connor, SPARK Director of Operations, Cardiff University
Peter McDowell, Business Property Director, Business Durham
Dr Sally Basker, Chief Executive Officer, Exeter Science Park
Bill Williams, Chief Executive, CEME (Centre for Engineering and Manufacturing Excellence)

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Leeds Digital Festival
2021-09-20 - 2021-10-01
The Leeds Digital Festival is an open, collaborative festival celebrating digital culture in all its forms over a two-week period each spring. Whether you’re interested in Fintech, coding, social media, AI, Healthtech, data, start-ups, digital music, cyber security or AR/VR, we’ve got something for you.
In 2021 Leeds Digital Festival returns for a 6th year! We’ll be hosting our usual two week programme packed full of tech and digital content this autumn, running from 20th September to 1st of October – in the hope that we’ll be able to include a limited number of in-person events in the programme, depending on Government restrictions.

Our two Covid-interrupted Festivals held in 2020 saw us grow on an international level, as our 428 online events across two Festivals welcomed over 45,000 attendees, including from 6 different continents and over 60 countries across the globe. With an ever growing voice and reach, Leeds Digital Festival will continue to celebrate the digital expertise and innovation that is happening in the city on a regional, national and international level.
The Festival has maintained the same collaborative approach since it first began, operating on an open platform system which means that anyone can host an event and it is free to do so. From start-ups to tech giants, anyone with a passion for tech and digital is encouraged to get involved and be part of Leeds Digital Festival 2021.
Find out more: https://leedsdigitalfestival.org/

Science and Innovation Parks Development Conference
2021-09-08 08:30 - 16:00 UTC | Royal Society of Medicine, 1 Wimpole Street, Westminster, London, W1G 0AE
On Wednesday, 8th September some of the leading stakeholders and influencers will gather for the Science and Innovation Parks Development Conference where the emerging opportunities in this thriving sector will be discussed.
The event, held at the Royal Society of Medicine will highlight future development activity from park expansions to new clusters being brought forward across the UK. Event speakers from across the industry will examine the economic growth these project will generate, the collaboration needed across the public and private sector to maximise the opportunities, and the potential work open to tender which will highlight how companies can get involved in future projects and plans.
UKSPA has put it’s weight behind the event as an official partner and supporter.
Speaking of the partnership Jim Duvall, Executive Director at UKSPA, said: “UKSPA is delighted to support the Science and Innovation Parks Development Conference. The event has many leading influential figures from within the Association’s membership speaking throughout the day sharing their visions, plans and opportunity for collaboration and development. The innovation locations supported and represented by UKSPA play a critical role in sustaining and growing the knowledge intensive companies that are essential for future economic prosperity across the entire UK.”
Amanda Griffiths, Co-Founder of event organisers Built Environment Networking, added: “We’re delighted UKSPA are supporting this event. Science and innovation parks will play a vital role in our aim to Build Back Better after the pandemic – and with the amount of key influencers set to be in the room from major investors and developers to the science parks themselves we’re hoping this event will unlock future development activity in the sector.”
For more details of the conference go to www.built-environment-networking.com/event/science-innovation-parks
