FAQs
Welcome to the FAQ section for the 41st IASP World Conference. Here, you will find answers to the most common questions about the event, including details on registration, accommodation, transportation, technical tours, the pre-conference seminar, and more. If you need further assistance, please contact us at events@iasp.ws.
General information
Q: When and where is the 41st IASP World Conference?
A: The 2024 IASP World Conference will be held from 24-27 September. It will take place at The Edge Convention Centre Nairobi, Red cross Road, South C, Nairobi.
Q: What is the main theme of the conference?
A: The main theme of this year’s conference is, “Demographics, entrepreneurship and technology: defining the frontiers of future economies”.
Registration
Q: How do I register for the conference?
A: You can register for the conference using the registration page. Follow the instructions to complete your registration.
Q: What is the registration fee?
A: The registration fee varies based on membership status and registration date. Early bird rates are no longer available – however there are special rates for students and groups. Please visit the registration page for detailed pricing.
Q: What is included in the registration fee?
A: The full conference registration fee includes access to all sessions, technical tours (subject to availability), conference materials, meals, and social events. To see what is included in other fee bands, visit the registration page.
Training seminar
Q: What is the pre-conference training seminar?
A: The pre-conference training seminar offers a unique opportunity to learn the key pillars of science and technology park (STP), innovation district (ID), and area of innovation (AOI) management from experienced peers.
It is ideal for newcomers to the industry, new CEOs, and anyone working on setting up a new STP, ID, or AOI. It includes discussions on strategic models, incubation, marketing and communication, services, governance, challenges, and opportunities.
Q: When and where will the pre-conference seminar take place?
A: The pre-conference seminar will take place on 24 September at the Emara Ole-Sereni Hotel, opposite the Nairobi National Park, the day before the main IASP Nairobi scientific programme begins.
Q: How do I register for the pre-conference seminar?
A: Register for the pre-conference seminar during the main conference registration process on our website. If already registered, you can add the seminar by logging into your booking portal account.
Q: Is there an additional cost to attend the pre-conference seminar?
A: Yes, there is an additional fee for the seminar. Please visit the registration page for detailed pricing information.
Q: What topics will be covered in the pre-conference seminar?
A: The seminar will cover crucial concepts in the conceptualisation, planning, and management of STPs, IDs, and AOIs, including strategic models, incubation, marketing and communication, services, governance, challenges, and opportunities.
Technical tours
Q: What are the technical tours?
A: The technical tours are guided visits to local science parks, innovation hubs, and technology centres in and around Nairobi, offering delegates a chance to see the innovative work being done and network with local industry leaders.
Q: When will the technical tours take place?
A: The technical tours are scheduled for before and after the main conference programme. Detailed timings and itineraries are available on the technical tours page.
Q: How do I sign up for a technical tour?
A: Sign up for the technical tours during the conference registration process on our website. If already registered, you can add a tour to your registration by logging back into your booking portal account.
Q: Is there an additional cost to participate in the technical tours?
A: Participation in the technical tours is included in the conference registration fee. Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Q: Will transportation be provided for the tours?
A: Yes, free transportation to and from the tour sites will be provided. Delegates will be picked up from and returned to the conference venue.
Q: What should I wear for the technical tours?
A: Business casual attire is recommended. Comfortable shoes are advisable as some tours may involve walking.
Transportation
Q: How do I get to the conference venue from the airport?
A: The conference venue is accessible by taxi, ride-sharing services, and public transportation from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). We recommend Absolute Tours (info@absoluteadventuresafaris.com) for large group airport transfers. Alternatively, delegates may also book an airport transfer with their hotel.
Q: Will there be transportation provided between the hotels and the conference venue?
A: Yes, shuttle services will be available between the recommended hotels and the conference venue.
Travel and accommodation
Q: Do I need a visa to enter Kenya?
A: As of 1 January 2024, foreign nationals, regardless of nationality, can enter Kenya without a visa for tourism or business travel for stays up to 90 days. Travelers must, however, obtain a new Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). For more information, visit the Kenya immigration website.
Q: Should I get travel insurance?
A: It is highly recommended that all delegates obtain travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events.
Q: Are there recommended hotels for conference attendees?
A: Yes, we have partnered with several hotels close to the conference venue. You can find a list of recommended hotels and booking links on our travel and accommodation page.
Q: Is there a discount for conference attendees at these hotels?
A: Yes, we have secured special rates for our delegates. Use the special codes that appear on our travel and accommodation page when booking to receive the discount.
Health and safety
Q: Are there any vaccination requirements for traveling to Kenya?
A: Some vaccinations may be required or recommended for travel to Kenya, including yellow fever. Please consult your national healthcare provider or travel clinic for advice on necessary vaccinations.
Q: What health precautions should I take when traveling to Kenya?
A: In addition to vaccinations, it is advisable to take precautions against mosquito bites to prevent malaria. Using insect repellent and sleeping under mosquito nets can help.
Q: What about the recent mpox outbreak? Should I be concerned?
A: This is a changing situation which we are monitoring closely with our conference hosts. The Kenyan Ministry of Health is undertaking various response and preventative measures, and updates can be seen here. Taking precautions such as strict hygiene and hand gels are recommended in any case. You can also read more here.
Q: Do I need to arrange my own health insurance for the conference?
A: Yes, delegates are responsible for arranging their own health insurance to cover any medical expenses that may arise during the conference. The conference has standard event liability insurance, which covers general liability and ensures the smooth running of the event. However, this does not cover individual health or travel insurance needs.
Sessions and events
Q: Where can I find the conference schedule?
A: The conference schedule is available on our website. It will be updated regularly as we finalise the sessions.
Q: Can I attend any session I want?
A: Yes, your registration grants you access to all conference sessions. This does not include the training seminar and technical tours which, due to limited availability, must be selected during the registration process. If already registered, you can add a tour to your registration by logging back into your booking portal account.
Q: Are there networking events?
A: Yes, there will be several networking events, including a welcome reception and gala dinner.
Q. What is the dress code for the conference and the gala dinner?
A: The dress code for the conference is business casual, which includes trousers or chinos, dress shirts or blouses, and comfortable shoes suitable for a professional setting.
For the gala dinner, the dress code is formal or semi-formal. This includes suits, dress shirts with ties, cocktail dresses or formal evening wear. Please dress to impress while ensuring your comfort throughout the evening.
Contact information
Q: Who can I contact if I have more questions?
A: For questions related to registration, if not covered in this FAQ, please contact iasp.registration@wearemci.com. For any additional questions, please contact our Events team on events@iasp.ws.